The government has taken a firm step to safeguard national resources by cancelling 73 mineral licences that had remained undeveloped for years, denying Tanzanians the economic benefits tied to the country’s mining sector.
Minister for Minerals, Anthony Mavunde, announced the move on November 25, 2025, emphasizing that the government has a responsibility to ensure that every acre of mineral-rich land contributes to national development rather than being left idle.
The decision follows President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s directive to strengthen youth empowerment and ensure mineral wealth is used productively.
According to the Ministry, the cancelled licences 44 for mineral exploration and 29 for medium-scale mining had failed to meet legal obligations under the Mining Act, Cap 123.
A total of 741,494 acres had been held by licence owners without any development, preventing communities and the nation from benefiting from potential economic opportunities.
Mavunde said the action marks a renewed commitment to protect the country from speculative practices that slow down sectoral growth.
By recovering these large tracts of land, the government intends to redirect them toward programmes that will directly benefit Tanzanians, especially young people.
All revoked areas will now be integrated into the Mining Better Tomorrow (MBT) youth programme, a national initiative designed to help young Tanzanians access mining opportunities, gain skills, and participate in value-addition activities.
The land will also be opened to committed investors who are ready to develop it responsibly and contribute to job creation.
The Minister noted that the mining sector plays a vital role in national economic growth, and allowing licences to lie dormant deprives the public of employment, revenue, and local development projects.
By enforcing compliance, the government aims to ensure that mineral resources uplift communities and strengthen the country’s long-term socioeconomic progress.
This decisive action signals a clear message: Tanzania’s mineral wealth belongs to its people, and it must be managed transparently, fairly, and in a manner that delivers real benefits to citizens today and future generations.