The Minerals Commission has committed to maintaining its support for explosives distributors and sellers across the country, ensuring they operate in full compliance with the laws and regulations governing the use of explosives.
This was announced by Chief Mining Inspector, Engineer Hamisi Kamando, on April 4, 2025, during the opening of a crucial working session in Dodoma, which brought together key stakeholders from the explosives industry, along with Mining and Explosives Inspectors from various regions.
In his address, Engineer Kamando acknowledged the rapid growth of the mining sector in Tanzania, which has significantly increased the demand for explosives.
He noted that this surge in demand has led to the expansion of the explosives business, creating both opportunities and challenges for the industry.
The government, through the Minerals Commission, recognizes the vital role that explosives play in the mining industry, particularly in the extraction of minerals, and is committed to ensuring that the sector remains well-regulated and safe.
"Due to the growing activities in the mining sector, the demand for explosives has risen substantially. As a result, we are witnessing a broader and more complex explosives trade within the country. However, this growth also brings with it several challenges, especially in the area of regulation and oversight," Engineer Kamando said.
"To address these challenges, the staff of the Mining and Environmental Inspection Department will continue to enforce strict controls and conduct regular inspections in all regions to ensure the safe handling and use of explosives."
The Chief Mining Inspector emphasized the importance of proper training, regulation, and monitoring to prevent accidents and environmental harm associated with explosives.
He also highlighted that the increasing use of explosives requires collaboration between the government and industry stakeholders to maintain safety standards, mitigate risks, and ensure that the growth of the explosives sector is sustainable.
During the meeting, stakeholders were encouraged to work together to address common challenges facing the explosives industry.
Engineer Kamando urged all explosives distributors and sellers to join the Tanzania Explosives Dealers Association (TEDA), which provides a platform for collective representation and advocacy.
He explained that by joining TEDA, businesses in the explosives sector could benefit from government support, including access to relevant training programs, safety guidelines, and policy advocacy.
"By uniting under one umbrella organization, we can strengthen the sector and ensure that all players operate under a unified set of standards. TEDA will allow the government to better support the industry, ensuring that the safety and regulatory needs of explosives distributors and sellers are met," he added.
The working session also included valuable insights from industry players, including Engineer Ramadhani Kamaka, a representative from Geita Region.
Kamaka expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to engage in dialogue with government representatives and other stakeholders, stating that the meeting was highly beneficial for his business and the broader explosives community.
He underscored the need for continued education and awareness programs for local authorities responsible for the regulation of explosives.
"Through meetings like this, we are able to share our experiences and challenges, as well as seek solutions that can improve the overall safety and effectiveness of the explosives sector. I urge the government to provide more education for the authorities that manage explosives, as their understanding of the issues directly impacts our ability to operate safely and legally," Kamaka said.
The Minerals Commission’s efforts to improve the regulatory framework for explosives are part of a broader initiative to enhance the safety and sustainability of Tanzania’s mining industry.
As the demand for explosives continues to rise, the government is determined to ensure that all businesses within the sector are equipped with the necessary tools, knowledge, and support to operate responsibly.
The Minerals Commission’s ongoing commitment to assisting explosives distributors and sellers underscores the government’s dedication to maintaining a safe and well-regulated mining sector.
By fostering collaboration between government agencies, industry stakeholders, and professional associations such as TEDA, Tanzania aims to safeguard both the industry and the environment as it moves toward greater economic growth and development in the mining sector.