By The Respondent Reporter, Kagera
The extraction of tin ore in Kagera continues to drive economic growth and contribute significantly to government revenues, with experts calling on Tanzanians to seize investment opportunities in the sector.
Speaking in an exclusive interview, Kagera’s Acting Resident Mining Officer, Nobert Mkopi, emphasized the region’s vast untapped potential in tin mining.
He highlighted various investment opportunities, including laboratory services for mineral analysis, security firms for mine sites, large-scale mineral traders, machinery suppliers, and both small- and large-scale mining licenses.
“There is still plenty of room for investment in tin mining. Several areas such as Nyaruzumbura, Katera, and Murongo in Kyerwa District remain largely unexplored. While small-scale mining is ongoing, we encourage both local and foreign investors to consider large-scale operations,” Mkopi stated.
He further noted, “The demand for tin continues to rise, and the mineral plays a crucial role in boosting our region’s mining revenue.”
Tin has a wide range of industrial applications, making it a valuable resource. It is used in steel and metal pipe connections, electrical circuits, electronic systems in mobile phones, railway components, aircraft systems, and elevator mechanisms.
Additionally, it plays a critical role in preventing corrosion in food storage containers and is widely used in the roofing industry.
Mkopi urged small-scale miners to adhere to professional and legal mining practices, warning against smuggling tin minerals outside the country.
“You have been granted licenses to mine within the legal framework. Any attempts to divert these minerals to other countries illegally will result in legal consequences,” he cautioned.
Evalista Didas, a miner representing tin extractors in Murongo, Kyerwa, praised the government’s efforts in supporting small-scale miners by issuing licenses and facilitating market access.
“The Sixth-Phase Government has created a favorable investment and trade environment for us. In the past, tin was undervalued, selling at TZS 2,000 per kilogram. Today, we sell at TZS 40,000 per kilogram, which has significantly improved our livelihoods,” Didas said.
He also highlighted how mining has changed societal perceptions.
“Previously, people looked down on miners. Now, mining has brought us dignity. We can afford education, build homes, and invest in livestock farming, all thanks to tin mining,” he added.
Zaid Silaji, Chairman of Nyaruzumbura Village in Murongo, noted that the mining sector has driven community development.
“Investors in the mining industry have contributed to infrastructure development, including building classrooms for primary and secondary schools, constructing a village government office, and rehabilitating previously impassable roads,” he said.
Silaji called on the government to provide more training on mining opportunities and best practices.
“We request the Ministry of Mining to conduct seminars for the local community to help us better understand and capitalize on the opportunities in our region,” he concluded.
As tin mining continues to flourish in Kagera, both small- and large-scale investors have a unique opportunity to contribute to the industry’s growth while reaping financial benefits.
With government support and proper regulatory frameworks, the sector remains a key pillar in driving economic prosperity in the region.