The Minister for Minerals, Anthony Mavunde, has directed that all major and medium-scale mining projects that have already been granted licenses begin operations immediately.
This move aims to accelerate sector growth, maximize national benefits, and fulfill the government’s commitment in issuing these licenses.
Speaking today, March 28, 2025, in Dodoma at a special meeting with the Tanzania Chamber of Mines (TCM), Minister Mavunde emphasized the importance of expediting mining activities.
The meeting focused on discussing key industry challenges and strategies to enhance mining operations and governance for the sector’s overall growth and contribution to the economy.
This engagement is part of his broader initiative to collaborate with all stakeholders across the mining value chain.
Minister Mavunde underscored the government’s dedication to ensuring that all approved mining projects commence without unnecessary delays.
He highlighted that the government has already streamlined procedures for investors, and now the private sector must take action.
"The government has played its part by eliminating many barriers and simplifying processes. Now, it is up to investors to ensure projects are implemented without delay," he stated.
Furthermore, Minister Mavunde reaffirmed the government’s commitment to working closely with stakeholders, including TCM, to address investor challenges and promote the sector’s rapid growth.
This collaboration is essential in achieving the sector’s target contribution to Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and broader economic development.
"We will engage with relevant institutions to assess and resolve challenges swiftly. We do not want any bureaucratic hurdles to slow down this vital sector. Our government is unified with a clear goal," Mavunde emphasized.
He also stressed the importance of research in the mining sector, noting that sustainable development hinges on significant investments in exploration and innovation to enhance productivity and efficiency.
"Mining is not just about extracting minerals; it is about long-term economic transformation. We must invest in research and technology to ensure sustainability and increased productivity," he noted.
Minister Mavunde commended stakeholders’ contributions to implementing the "Vision 2030: Minerals for Life and Wealth" initiative, spearheaded by the Ministry.
This program focuses on expanding geological research, increasing employment opportunities for Tanzanians, strengthening Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) projects, and empowering local businesses through the Local Content policy.
On the economic impact of the mining sector, Minister Mavunde noted its rapid growth. "In the 2022/23 financial year, the sector contributed 7.2% to GDP, rising to 9.0% in 2023/24. Our target is to reach at least 10% by 2025, in line with the Chama cha Mapinduzi (CCM) 2020-2025 election manifesto and the National Development Plan for 2025," he explained.
Regarding government revenue, Minister Mavunde highlighted a significant increase in collections. "In the 2015/16 financial year, government revenue from mining was TZS 162 billion. By 2023/24, this had increased to TZS 753 billion. Our target for 2024/25 is TZS 1 trillion, and with the current revenue trends, we are confident of achieving this milestone," he stated.
Tanzania Chamber of Mines (TCM) Executive Officer, Engineer Benjamin Mchwampaka, commended the Ministry of Minerals for its continuous engagement with industry stakeholders.
"We appreciate the Ministry's efforts in ensuring that the private sector has a seat at the table. This collaborative approach is crucial in fostering an investor-friendly environment," he said.
He pointed out that Tanzania is among the few countries where the private sector is actively involved in high-level policy discussions alongside government officials.
"The participation of both the Ministry and TCM in major international conferences, such as the annual Mining Indaba in South Africa, is a clear indication of our joint commitment to sector growth," Mchwampaka added.
