The graphite mining projects in Mahenge, Ulanga District, are set to boost economic growth and improve livelihoods, benefiting communities from village level up to the national stage.
Major investments are underway through two leading companies, Faru Graphite and Duma Graphite, operating under their joint venture, TanzGraphite.
Acting District Director of Ulanga, Juma Kapilima, said on November 11, 2025, that the projects would create thousands of job opportunities while driving infrastructure development.
“The Faru Graphite project alone is expected to generate 900 direct jobs and more than 4,000 indirect opportunities. These jobs will support local businesses and create a ripple effect across Mahenge and surrounding areas,” Kapilima said.
He also highlighted planned infrastructure improvements, including the extension of a 220-kilovolt electricity line from Ifakara to Mahenge and the construction of roads linking the mining sites to nearby villages.
“These developments will make it easier to transport goods and services, boosting trade and economic activity in the district,” he added.
Jacqueline Mushi, Faru Graphite’s Public Relations Officer, said the company’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives have already made a tangible impact.
“We have built three village offices in Mdindo, Kisewe, and Mdindo, donated 100 bags of cement for the Makanga office, renovated Makanga Primary School, and drilled water wells in Mdindo Village,” Mushi said.
She emphasized that graphite is a critical material for modern technology, including clean energy applications, positioning Tanzania to benefit from the global green economy.
“Through this project, Tanzania is entering the international clean technology value chain,” she noted.
Nestory Uhadi, Executive Officer of Mdindo Village, said the community has high expectations from the projects.
“Over 1,200 residents affected by the project have received compensation, seven classrooms at Makanga Primary School have been renovated, and two village offices have been constructed. The Faru project has brought hope and tangible improvements to our community,” Uhadi said.
He added that strong collaboration between local authorities and investment companies is creating lasting development prospects.
With the Faru and Duma Graphite projects, Mahenge is becoming a hub of economic activity, generating jobs, improving infrastructure, and positioning Tanzania as a key player in the international graphite market.
Local residents and businesses alike are already beginning to reap the benefits of these transformative investments.
