Tanzania’s growing mining sector is fueling higher electricity demand across the country, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Energy, Dr. Doto Biteko, has said.
Speaking at the closing of the 8th Geita Mineral Technology Exhibition on September 28, 2025, Dr. Biteko said the rise in mining activities and value addition is a clear sign of the sector’s rapid growth.
The exhibition ran from September 18 to 28 at the Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan Bombambili Grounds in Geita.
“The mining sector’s growth goes hand in hand with electricity needs. In Geita alone, more than 30 megawatts are now in use, compared to much lower levels before.
The government is committed to supplying power to mines, small-scale mining areas, and mineral processing factories to sustain production and improve efficiency,” Dr. Biteko said.
He added that the mining sector has remained resilient over the past four years and continues to be one of the pillars of Tanzania’s economy.
During the exhibition, the Bank of Tanzania (BoT) revealed it had purchased over 10 tons of gold valued at more than TZS 2.5 trillion.
The move is part of a national strategy to boost reserves and protect the economy from global market shocks.
Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Minerals, Msafiri Mbibo, said the Geita Mineral Technology Exhibition has brought major benefits to the sector and the country since it started eight years ago.
“These exhibitions have improved mine safety, efficiency, productivity, and mineral trading quality. They have also reduced conflicts between communities and investors,” Mbibo said.
Geita Regional Commissioner, Martin Shigella, noted that the exhibition benefits not just Tanzania but neighboring countries as well.
“Countries like Malawi have been attending to learn best practices in mining management and successful operations,” he said.
Dr. Biteko’s remarks and the exhibition highlight how mining continues to drive Tanzania’s economic growth, create jobs, and increase the country’s industrial capacity.