By Charles Mkoka
Dodoma– The Ministry of
Minerals has on October 15, 2024, reaffirmed its commitment to developing the
small-scale mining sector in Tanzania, ensuring the country's mineral resources
play a leading role in driving economic growth and contributing to the national
GDP.
Speaking
in Dodoma, Minister for Minerals Anthony Mavunde, outlined the ministry’s
strategies for 2024/2025, highlighting continued collaboration between the
government and private sector to enhance mining activities. The minister was
responding to issues raised by the Parliamentary Committee on Energy and
Minerals during a session today.
Minister
Mavunde emphasized the government’s plan to build modern laboratories in Dodoma
and Geita, allowing small-scale miners to have their samples tested
efficiently. This initiative aims to improve the productivity and reliability
of mining activities in the country.
"The
ministry is also focused on strengthening partnerships between public and
private sectors to improve infrastructure, including road networks and
electricity supply in key mining areas," said Mavunde.
Deputy
Minister for Minerals, Dr. Steven Kiruswa, highlighted the government’s efforts
to educate small-scale miners on tax obligations, community responsibilities,
and the importance of environmental conservation in mining activities. This
outreach has been conducted at ward development committee meetings across the
country.
Commissioner
for Minerals, Dr. Abdulrahman Mwanga, also presented the ministry’s plans to
the Parliamentary Committee, noting ongoing efforts to provide extension
services to small-scale miners in Dodoma. Additionally, educational programs on
the safe use of mercury in Chamwino and Bahi districts will continue.
Dr.
Mwanga added that the ministry is improving its licensing and mineral
exploration systems, including enhancing drilling methods for mineral
prospecting. Other initiatives include environmental education on the impacts
of construction material mining and raising awareness about mineral taxation
and rights in Dodoma and surrounding areas.
Chairperson
of the Parliamentary Committee on Energy and Minerals, Dr. David Mathayo David,
praised the ministry for its efforts, particularly in increasing the mineral
sector’s contribution to the national GDP from 7.1% to 9%.
According to the 2022 Population and Housing Census, the Dodoma region has 260,505 people engaged in various activities within the small-scale mining value chain. Of these, 126,841 are men and 133,664 are women, making up 4.6% of the country's total workforce involved in mining activities.