Small-scale miners across Tanzania have made a unified decision to support President Samia Suluhu Hassan, recognizing her crucial contribution to the growth and development of the small-scale mining sector.
This declaration was made during the Songwe Regional Miners’ Forum held on April 12, 2025, where John Bina, the President of the Federation of Miners Associations of Tanzania (FEMATA), highlighted the significant strides the sector has made under President Samia’s leadership.
He pointed out that, thanks to her efforts, small-scale miners are now respected not only within Tanzania but also throughout Africa.
Bina emphasized that Tanzania stands as the only country in Africa where small-scale miners are treated with such recognition, their voices heard, and their working conditions greatly improved.
As a demonstration of their appreciation, FEMATA has committed to organizing peaceful solidarity marches across all regions, beginning with Simiyu.
Bina further praised President Samia for her inclusive leadership, which has allowed all Tanzanians, including those in the informal sector like small-scale miners, to be heard and valued.
He stressed that the remarkable transformation in the mining sector is a direct result of leadership that listens, engages, and prioritizes the needs of every citizen.
Key reasons for their support include the enhanced respect for small-scale miners, greater access to loans, the establishment of mineral markets, improved electricity supply at mining sites, and the increased job opportunities the sector has generated.
These improvements have provided employment for thousands of youth and local residents, thus helping to reduce the national unemployment rate, particularly in mining regions.
Dr. Steven Kiruswa, the Deputy Minister for Minerals, also expressed the government's strong support for small-scale miners.
He highlighted the government’s comprehensive strategies aimed at empowering these miners and increasing their contribution to the national economy.
Dr. Kiruswa emphasized that the government’s goal is to assist small-scale miners in transitioning to medium and eventually large-scale operations, enabling them to achieve financial success.
He reaffirmed that President Samia’s leadership is dedicated to ensuring that no stakeholder is left behind.
Dr. Kiruswa encouraged FEMATA to formalize their resolutions in writing and present them to President Samia at the appropriate time.
Among the government’s strategies are the allocation of designated mining areas for small-scale miners, the introduction of safe and modern mining technologies, the enhancement of financial support systems, and the provision of ongoing training to build the capacity of miners.
The government is also committed to addressing the legal challenges that small-scale miners face to facilitate smooth operations within the sector.
Simiyu Regional Commissioner Kenani Kihongosi commended FEMATA’s decision to launch their campaign in Simiyu, seeing it as a symbol of the sector’s growing openness and potential.
He acknowledged the large number of small-scale miners in the region, who are direct beneficiaries of the government’s strategic efforts to ensure the mining sector is both sustainable and productive.
Kihongosi noted that these efforts are critical in ensuring that small-scale mining continues to thrive and contribute to the nation’s economic growth.