Tanzania’s government has awarded a significant nickel mining license to the State Mining Corporation (STAMICO) for operations in the Ntaka Hills area of Nachingwea District, in the mineral-rich Lindi region.
The decision also formalises the status of small-scale miners currently operating in the area, signalling a move towards greater regulation and economic inclusion within the mining sector.
The announcement was made by the Minister of Minerals, Anthony Mavunde, during a public meeting with local residents and artisanal miners following a site visit to mining operations organised under the Federation of Artisanal Miners’ Groups (UVIWAMA).
Minister Mavunde said the government had responded to longstanding appeals from miners for formal recognition and access to mining areas previously licensed by the state.
He reassured artisanal miners that they would not be displaced but rather supported to legalise their mining activities in accordance with Tanzania’s Mining Act.
“The President has directed that this 45-square-kilometre license be allocated to STAMICO, with commercial mining expected to commence within 18 months,” Minister Mavunde explained.
He added that since the government had paid more than TZS 243 billion (about $94 million) in compensation to previous license holders, STAMICO and small-scale miners must ensure the project delivers meaningful economic returns to the national treasury.
Artisanal miners were urged to comply with legal requirements, including obtaining consent from landowners before mining to avoid conflicts.
The formalisation process is expected to bring greater stability and sustainability to mining activities in the region.
Speaking on behalf of local miners, Mr Mayunga Musa Buyaga, chairman of the Lindi Regional Miners Association, expressed gratitude to President Samia Suluhu Hassan for her commitment to supporting small-scale miners and pledged cooperation with the government to ensure responsible mining practices.
Lindi Regional Commissioner, Zainab Telack, praised the government’s intervention for restoring hope among miners and promised continued support to maintain order and prevent conflicts in the mining sector.
This development reflects Tanzania’s broader strategy to enhance value from its mineral resources through increased regulation, formalisation of artisanal mining, and greater state involvement in strategic mining operations.
Nickel, a key mineral for the global electric vehicle and green energy sectors, positions Tanzania as an important player in the supply of critical minerals in Africa.