Dodoma — The government has reaffirmed that mining and tourism remain two of Tanzania’s most strategic and interlinked sectors, jointly driving the country’s economic growth through investment attraction, employment creation, and increased national revenues.
Speaking during the closing ceremony of the 2025 Extractive Industry Forum held in Dodoma, the Deputy Minister for Natural Resources and Tourism, Dunstan Kitandula, said that exhibitions and auctions in the mining sector are increasingly attracting international and domestic tourists as well as investors, who not only participate in trade but also explore Tanzania’s tourism attractions.
“We are witnessing how the mining sector significantly contributes to the tourism industry by attracting visitors, boosting the hospitality sector, and promoting Tanzanian heritage and culture,” said Mr. Kitandula.
He noted that mining events such as gemstone trade fairs do not only promote the country’s mineral wealth, but also act as platforms to introduce Tanzania’s tourism potential to new audiences, thereby reinforcing the link between the two sectors.
Mr. Kitandula also drew attention to ongoing challenges in small-scale mining, particularly the environmental degradation resulting from unregulated tree-cutting and land misuse.
“We cannot allow these issues to persist. There is an urgent need for sustainable mining practices that balance economic benefit with environmental protection,” he stressed.
The Deputy Minister called for comprehensive strategies to ensure mining activities yield long-term benefits to local communities while safeguarding ecosystems and natural landscapes.
He added that the forum’s deliberations provide a strong foundation for advancing reforms and policy actions in the extractive sector, with a focus on transparency, sound governance, and stakeholder collaboration.
“The insights shared here today will support the development of a more inclusive and accountable mining sector one that serves the interests of both the nation and its people,” said Mr. Kitandula.
The forum brought together stakeholders from across the extractive value chain, including policymakers, private sector representatives, civil society, and development partners, all committed to harnessing the sector's full potential.