The Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Minerals, Eng. Yahya Samamba, has urged officials of the Mining Commission to intensify safety measures in mining sites through frequent inspections and continuous education to minimize accidents and protect lives.
Speaking during a virtual strategic meeting with the Commission’s leadership—including Chairperson Dr. Janet Lekashingo, Executive Secretary Eng. Ramadhani Lwamo, directors, and regional mining officers—Samamba underscored the importance of proactive safety management as the country approaches the short rain season.
“It is crucial for regional mining offices to increase inspections at small-scale mining sites and educate miners on safe extraction practices. They must also ensure that miners consistently use protective gear to prevent injuries and fatalities,” he emphasized.
Beyond safety, the Permanent Secretary stressed the importance of promoting miners’ health by facilitating regular medical checkups, as well as resolving disputes in mining areas promptly to maintain peace and stability.
He reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to intervene whenever necessary to safeguard harmonious operations in the sector.
Samamba also directed the Commission to fast-track the issuance of mining licenses to enable miners to start operations quickly and benefit from mineral resources.
“Licensing services must be improved. Regional offices should actively notify applicants when their licenses are ready rather than waiting for follow-ups,” he said. He further called for closer collaboration with regional authorities and security organs in regulating the sector.
Highlighting the financial mandate of the Commission, Samamba urged innovation in revenue collection, noting that the Commission is expected to collect TZS 1.2 trillion in the 2025/2026 fiscal year.
He also pressed for continuous safety training programs for miners to build a culture of safe practices in all operations.
Dr. Lekashingo and Eng. Lwamo expressed gratitude to the Ministry for its continued support, including the provision of essential tools for effective oversight.
They assured stakeholders that the Commission remains committed to implementing directives with creativity and efficiency to strengthen governance and productivity in the mining industry.