In a bid to foster responsible and sustainable mining in Tanzania’s growing copper sector, small-scale miners operating in Dodoma Region have been equipped with vital training on occupational safety, public health, and environmental safeguards.
The training, jointly facilitated by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Mining Commission, brought together miners from Shengde Mine in Nala, Hussein Pilly Mine in Tambi (Mpwapwa District), and Canada Mine in Chamkoroma (Kongwa District).
Mining Commission official Eng. Chacha Megewa, while officiating the session, said the training is part of a broader agenda to ensure that small-scale miners adopt international best practices that protect both human life and the environment.
“It is no longer business as usual,” he said. “Mining must be done with caution and compliance. Wearing personal protective equipment like helmets, reflective vests, safety boots, gloves and masks should be non-negotiable at any site.”
Eng. Megewa highlighted that blasting operations in mines remain among the most dangerous activities, requiring strict adherence to regulations.
“Only certified experts should handle explosives. And under no circumstance should anyone re-enter the mine before it's confirmed that all explosives have detonated,” he warned.
Fahad Mkuu, a Mining Inspector with the Commission, echoed similar sentiments, stressing that safety is a shared responsibility.
“Working without protective gear is not just risky it’s reckless,” said Fahad. “Mine environments are inherently dangerous. Our collective duty is to protect lives and restore the land we mine.”he added
He urged miners to uphold post-mining rehabilitation practices, such as refilling open pits and planting trees, which he said are crucial for safeguarding communities, especially children and livestock, from accidental harm.
During a feedback session, participants welcomed the initiative and appealed for further support particularly access to protective gear and reproductive health services.
Some also raised concerns about the prevalence of HIV in mining areas and the need for stronger health interventions.
UNDP says the training is part of its strategic push to strengthen the governance and productivity of the extractive sector, while promoting social and environmental accountability.
According to organizers, similar sessions will be rolled out across other regions, as Tanzania intensifies efforts to align small-scale mining with national policies and global sustainability standards.
