The Mining Commission’s laboratory has set a new record after surpassing its annual target for mineral sample testing in the 2024/2025 financial year, signaling improved efficiency in supporting the mining industry.
The laboratory completed 7,684 tests by June 30, exceeding the target of 6,800. The achievement was highlighted at the Eighth National Mining Technology Exhibition held in Geita, where Commission chemist David Lyandala said the milestone reflects growing demand for reliable testing services.
“The laboratory continues to provide professional services to determine the quality and content of minerals. These services cover gold analysis, concentrates, carbon, gold-bearing solutions, clay and rock samples through fire assay methods. We also use X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF) technology to analyze metals such as copper, iron, nickel, manganese, galena and zinc,” Lyandala said.
He added that the facility conducts further examinations including graphite testing, soil and rock moisture, and “loss on ignition” tests to measure weight reduction during burning. Modern equipment such as XRF machines, Atomic Absorption Spectrometers (AAS), CNHS Analyzers and furnaces have enhanced accuracy and efficiency, he noted.
Beyond testing, the laboratory also provides education to miners and traders on the importance of sample analysis before entering business transactions.
Small-scale miner John Magesa from Geita said the services have transformed the way artisanal miners approach the market.
“In the past, we used to sell minerals without knowing their true quality, and that meant losing value. Now we have certainty, and we can trade more profitably,” he said.
Located at the TIRDO Complex on Kimweri Avenue in Msasani, Dar es Salaam, the Mining Commission’s laboratory provides services to miners and traders nationwide, helping to improve transparency and trust in mineral trade.