Lindi Region is on track to become Tanzania’s leading mining hub, thanks to the discovery of over 10 types of mineral resources, including high-demand strategic minerals such as graphite and nickel.
In an exclusive interview, Lindi Regional Mining Officer, Engineer Emmanuel Shija, revealed that a 2024 geological survey conducted by the Tanzania Geological Survey (GST) using drone technology identified significant deposits of high-quality graphite in the Ruangwa area of Lindi.
Other minerals confirmed to be present in the region include iron-based resources such as nickel, gold, copper, and manganese, as well as industrial minerals like gypsum, limestone, iron, and salt.
Engineer Shija highlighted Lindi’s strong industrial mineral production, particularly gypsum, which is widely utilized by local and regional cement and gypsum board manufacturers.
“We are branding Lindi Region as ‘The Future Mineral Hub of Tanzania’. While large-scale mining projects are still limited, we anticipate significant developments in the coming years,” said Engineer Shija.
He added that this optimism is grounded in the region’s diverse and abundant mineral deposits.
One of the notable projects already underway is the mid-scale Lindi Jumbo mine, which has commenced production of high-grade graphite, primarily used in battery manufacturing and electronic devices.
“We are seeing positive trends in both production and revenue. Currently, the top three contributors to our mining revenue are nickel (35%), gold (30%), and gypsum (20%),” Shija explained.
Regarding fiscal performance, Engineer Shija reported that for the 2024/2025 financial year, the region was tasked with collecting TZS 7.5 billion in government revenue—a target that was achieved ahead of schedule, by May 5.
“As of now, we have collected TZS 7.9 billion, which is 105% of our assigned target,” he stated.
Looking ahead, the revenue target for the 2025/2026 financial year has been raised to TZS 10.5 billion, reflecting confidence in the sector’s continued growth.
“Given the current momentum and ongoing developments, we are optimistic that we will meet—and possibly exceed—this new target,” concluded Shija.
