Nanyumbu District in Mtwara Region has begun reaping the benefits of its mineral resources, with the government confirming that gold valued at TZS 1.28 billion was produced in the district over a four-year period (2020–2023).
This announcement was made today, May 20, 2025, in Parliament by the Deputy Minister for Minerals, Dr. Steven Kiruswa.
He was responding to a question from Nanyumbu MP, Ally Yahya Mhata, who inquired about revenues generated from mining activities in the district between 2021 and 2023.
Dr. Kiruswa reported that the government has collected a total of TZS 93.33 million from gold production in the district, through various channels including royalties, inspection fees, and service levies paid to the local council.
“Nanyumbu currently has 66 active small-scale mining licenses. We encourage license holders to continue developing their sites and welcome other qualified stakeholders to formally register and take part in the growth of this important sector,” Dr. Kiruswa stated.
He further noted that the Ministry of Minerals continues to offer training and raise awareness among miners to boost productivity and, in turn, promote economic development in Nanyumbu and the broader Mtwara Region.
Regarding the government's promise to allocate mining blocks to small-scale miners, Dr. Kiruswa explained that the Ministry is currently focused on conducting comprehensive geological surveys to identify mineral-rich areas and determine the types of minerals available.
Once this research is complete, the government will officially allocate the sites to ensure that miners operate more effectively rather than relying on guesswork.
This initiative is part of the government’s broader strategy to ensure that citizens benefit directly from mineral resources through sustainable, inclusive, and impactful practices that contribute to national development.