Minister for Minerals, Anthony Mavunde, has intervened in the delayed implementation of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) projects by Geita Gold Mining Limited (GGML) in Geita Region, calling for urgent action to ensure that local communities benefit from the region’s mineral wealth.
Chairing a high-level meeting on April 14, 2025, in Dodoma, the Minister brought together officials from the Ministry of Minerals, the Mining Commission, regional leaders, Members of Parliament from Geita, and GGML representatives to discuss challenges and chart a way forward.
Speaking during the meeting, Minister Mavunde stressed the need for accountability and accelerated delivery of promised development initiatives.
“The people of Geita want to see the direct impact of the mine’s presence through visible development projects,” he said.
“I convened this meeting to find a better way of implementing CSR projects, to resolve existing challenges, and to ensure that the resources being extracted benefit the communities from which they come.”
He instructed GGML to finalize all incomplete CSR projects from 2018 to 2021, adding that their completion is crucial for the launch of new, high-impact initiatives.
“I am giving GGML three days to meet with the Directors of Geita Town Council and Geita District Council to prepare and submit a full implementation report on the previous projects,” Mavunde directed.
AngloGold Ashanti Vice President, Simon Shayo, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to community development, stating, “We are ready to work closely with the leadership of Geita Region to ensure that people benefit from the CSR projects.
So far, TZS 21 billion has been set aside for implementation, and we expect these funds to bring real and lasting change to the region.”
Geita Regional Commissioner, Martin Shigela, urged GGML to honor all project agreements and maintain close cooperation with government authorities.
“What has been agreed upon must be implemented on time and as promised,” he said. “Strong collaboration between GGML and regional leadership is essential for the success of these projects and the well-being of Geita residents.”
Members of Parliament from Geita Region also voiced their concerns, pushing for better oversight and quality assurance. Constantine Kanyasu, Joseph Kasheku Msukuma, and Tumaini Magesa all called on GGML to ensure timely and high-quality completion of CSR projects.
“Projects must reflect the value of the resources invested in them,” one MP said, “so that our people can clearly see and feel the benefits of hosting such a major mining operation.”
Currently, GGML contributes approximately TZS 9.2 billion annually to CSR initiatives in Geita Region.
With fresh directives in place, stakeholders now hope for faster progress and deeper community impact from the projects financed through this contribution.