More than 1,500 young Tanzanians have gained vital technical skills through the Industrial Mining Technical Training (IMTT) Program, a joint initiative between the Tanzania Chamber of Mines (TCM) and the Vocational Education and Training Authority (VETA).
The program, which began in 2009, aims to address the shortage of skilled local technicians in the mining sector a gap that previously led many companies to rely on foreign experts.
Speaking at a press conference held in Dar es Salaam on May 23, 2025, TCM Executive Secretary Benjamin Mchwampaka said the program has made significant progress in building local capacity.
“To date, we’ve trained over 1,500 Tanzanian youths, with 1,333 men and 167 women graduating from the program. Impressively, 70 percent of them have already secured employment in the mining and industrial sectors both locally and internationally,” he said.
The IMTT program offers hands-on training in five core areas: industrial electrical engineering, heavy mining equipment mechanics, automotive electrical systems in mining, heavy steel welding, and machinery fitting and maintenance.
According to Mchwampaka, these courses were designed to equip trainees with the practical skills most in demand in today’s job market.
He also highlighted the shifting dynamics within the mining industry, noting that more operations are now moving underground, which has created new demand for specialized technical skills.
“To meet these evolving needs, TCM and VETA have developed six new training courses, which are currently awaiting final approval. These include jumbo and solo drill operation, Bogger and Cubex machinery operation, underground explosive charging, and lifting and rigging techniques,” Mchwampaka explained.
“These new courses will prepare our youth to take over roles currently held by foreign professionals, supporting the government’s local content policy and ensuring more Tanzanians benefit directly from the country’s natural resources,” he added.
Mchwampaka reaffirmed TCM’s commitment to supporting national development goals by enhancing local participation in the mining value chain. “We are proud to be contributing to the government's vision by preparing our youth with the skills the market truly needs,” he said.
“This not only broadens employment opportunities but also contributes to a more inclusive and resilient economy.”he added
He encouraged all Tanzanian youth with at least a Form Four (secondary school) education to consider enrolling in the program.
“This is a chance for young people to build a stable career in one of the country’s most important industries,” Mchwampaka urged.
“We call on communities and parents to support and encourage youth to take advantage of these life-changing opportunities.”he added