Deputy Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Minerals, Msafiri Mbibo, has underscored the need for a coordinated national effort to combat mineral smuggling, warning that the illegal trade poses a serious threat to Tanzania’s economic stability and resource security.
Speaking during a high-level meeting of experts from various government institutions held on October 7, 2025, at the ministry’s headquarters in Mtumba, Dodoma, Mbibo said protecting mineral resources must be seen as a shared responsibility of all Tanzanians.
He stressed that mineral smuggling continues to deny the government significant revenue and undermines the sector’s potential to drive national development.
“Mineral smuggling is not just an economic crime; it is an assault on our national integrity,” he said. “Every Tanzanian must take part in protecting these resources for the benefit of both current and future generations.”
The meeting, convened to review and align strategies for curbing mineral smuggling, brought together officials from key enforcement and oversight institutions.
Mbibo noted that fragmented efforts and weak coordination had created loopholes that smugglers exploit, calling for an integrated monitoring framework that links mines, inspection posts, airports, ports, and border points.
He proposed the establishment of a national task force comprising technical experts drawn from different agencies to strengthen intelligence gathering, surveillance, and enforcement operations in areas vulnerable to smuggling.
He also urged investment in modern detection technologies to help authorities identify minerals—particularly gemstones—more accurately and efficiently.
Mbibo further recommended continuous training for officers stationed at inspection points to enhance their ability to detect illegal shipments and apply modern technological tools in monitoring mineral flows.
He emphasized that empowering frontline officers was crucial to addressing the sophisticated tactics used by smugglers.
Participants at the meeting agreed to draw up an immediate joint action plan to implement the resolutions reached, ensuring that anti-smuggling interventions are coordinated, sustainable, and results-oriented.
Institutions represented included the Ministry of Minerals, the Ministry of Home Affairs, the Mining Commission, the Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA), the Prevention and Combating of Corruption Bureau (PCCB), and the Tanzania Airports Authority (TAA).
The meeting reflected growing government concern over the persistence of mineral smuggling, which analysts say undermines the sixth-phase administration’s drive to strengthen revenue collection and promote responsible mineral trade.