The United Kingdom has pledged to strengthen cooperation with Tanzania’s mining sector, focusing on investment, technology transfer, and skills development to unlock the industry’s full potential.
The commitment came during a visit to the Ministry of Minerals in Dodoma on Wednesday by a UK delegation led by Ms. Anna Wilson, the new Development Director at the British High Commission in Tanzania.
The team met with Acting Commissioner for Minerals, Mr. Terrence Ngole, who represented the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Eng. Yahya Samamba.
During the meeting, officials discussed priority areas for collaboration, including mineral value addition, modern laboratory infrastructure, geological surveys, adoption of advanced technologies, and training of local experts.
Speaking on behalf of the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Ngole expressed appreciation for the UK’s long-standing support in developing Tanzania’s mining industry.
He emphasized that Tanzania seeks to deepen cooperation to ensure the sector contributes more directly to national economic growth.
“We are keen to expand partnerships that allow Tanzanians to benefit from their mineral resources through value addition, modern technology, and local capacity building,” said Mr. Ngole.
He highlighted a recent milestone in bilateral cooperation the memorandum of understanding signed between the Geological Survey of Tanzania (GST) and the British Geological Survey (BGS).
The agreement aims to strengthen scientific research, laboratory services, and capacity development for mining sector professionals.
For her part, Ms. Wilson commended the ministry for its structured approach and efforts to enhance transparency and efficiency in the sector.
She assured that the UK is committed to supporting Tanzania in achieving its development goals.
“Tanzania’s mining industry holds great potential for driving sustainable economic growth. By working together, we can open more opportunities for investment, innovation, and shared prosperity,” Ms. Wilson said.
Analysts say the visit reflects the UK’s strategic interest in Tanzania’s mineral resources, including graphite, nickel, and rare earths, amid rising global demand.
Tanzania is positioning itself as a hub for mineral processing in East Africa, with reforms aimed at attracting responsible investment and ensuring greater local value retention.
The UK has been a key partner in Tanzania’s mining sector for decades, contributing to geological research, exploration, and policy advisory services.
This latest engagement underscores a renewed focus on leveraging technology and expertise to transform the industry into a stronger driver of economic development.
