The government’s ambitious drive to boost value addition in the mining sector gained momentum on Tuesday as the Minister for Minerals, Anthony Mavunde, inspected the construction of an eight-storey modern building at the Tanzania Gemological Centre (TGC) in Arusha.
The Sh33 billion project, expected to be completed in phases, is a flagship government investment aimed at transforming Arusha into a regional hub for gemstone training, processing and trade.
Once complete, the building will serve as a one-stop centre for mineral identification, laboratory analysis, professional training, and business transactions.
“The government under President Samia Suluhu Hassan is determined to enhance local capacity in gemstone processing and trade,” said Mr Mavunde during the inspection.
“This project is not just about infrastructure it is a strategic investment in knowledge, jobs, and value retention for our country.”he added
According to the minister, the facility will feature lecture halls, modern laboratories, training workshops, student dormitories, and administrative offices. It is being developed under the supervision of the Ministry of Minerals in collaboration with TGC, with implementation by Skywards Lumocons Joint Venture.
During the tour, Mr Mavunde received progress updates from the project engineer, Julian Mosha, and TGC project supervisor, Jumanne Nshimba.
He expressed satisfaction with the current pace of work but called on the contractor to accelerate construction in line with the agreed timeline and standards.
“This is a critical project for the minerals sector. We want to ensure it begins operations as planned and meets the quality expectations. I am urging the contractor to increase the workforce and improve efficiency to keep up with the project schedule,” the minister said.
The centre is expected to expand Tanzania’s capacity for advanced gemological services and professional training, helping to create skilled jobs for Tanzanian youth in mineral science, geology, and value chain development.
Mr Mavunde stressed that the government’s broader goal is to make Tanzania a centre of excellence for mineral trade and value addition in Africa.
“This centre will bridge the skills gap, encourage local beneficiation, and position Tanzania as a serious player in the regional and global gemstone markets,” he added.
Local stakeholders praised the government’s commitment to the sector. Arusha Regional Miners Association (AREMA) Chairman Alfred Mwaswenya and Tanzania Mineral Dealers Association (CHAMATA) Chairman Jeremia Kituyo hailed the project as a major boost to the gemstone industry.
“This is a welcome development. The centre will bring services and skills closer to us, and reduce the burden of exporting raw minerals. We thank President Samia for her continued support to the mining community,” said Kituyo.
Arusha Regional Commissioner Kenani Kihongosi, who accompanied the minister, commended the Ministry of Minerals for investing in a facility that aligns with regional economic priorities.
“This is a game-changing project for Arusha. It will stimulate the local economy, attract investment, and enhance the region’s profile as a gemstone trade hub,” Mr Kihongosi said.
The eight-storey TGC facility is part of broader reforms by the sixth-phase government to improve infrastructure, promote local content, and ensure Tanzanians benefit more directly from the country’s mineral wealth.
The project’s completion will mark a significant step in Tanzania’s long-term vision to shift from exporting raw minerals to becoming a leading centre for value-added gemstone products.