Mahenge, a once-quiet area in Ulanga District, Morogoro Region, is gaining international fame for its rare and dazzling spinel gemstones precious stones that are now turning the region into a fast-emerging hub for mineral tourism in Tanzania.
Engineer Penina Mtego, Site Manager at Ruby International Mine in Epanko Village, that the exceptional quality of Mahenge’s spinel gemstones has inspired the creation of the Spinel Mineral Tourism Center.
The facility welcomes international gemstone traders, researchers, and enthusiasts to explore the birthplace of the globally admired gems.
“Mahenge spinels are celebrated worldwide for their radiant pink and red hues, which are so vivid that many people mistake them for synthetic stones,” said Eng. Mtego.
“Their natural brilliance continues to attract gemstone dealers and collectors from across the globe, eager to witness the mining operations and preservation sites firsthand.”he added
She noted that Mahenge spinels have featured prominently at major global exhibitions such as the Tucson Gem Show in the United States, the Hong Kong Jewellery Fair, and the Bangkok Gem and Jewellery Fair in Thailand.
Through these platforms, Tanzania has strengthened its reputation as one of the leading sources of high-quality gemstones.
According to Salehe Mbura, the mine’s Production Supervisor, the rise of spinel mining has given birth to a new segment of the tourism industry mineral tourism.
Visitors from around the world now travel to Mahenge to learn about gemstone formation, observe traditional mining methods, and explore the area’s historical links to the gemstone trade.
“Some tourists come for business, others for academic research, and some simply to experience the cultural and artisanal practices surrounding gemstone mining,” Mbura said.
He added that mineral tourism has significantly boosted the local economy by creating jobs and new income streams in accommodation, transportation, gemstone trading, and cultural services.
Local residents have also benefited by selling handmade crafts and offering services to tourists.
Engineer Joseph Ng’itu, a Mining Engineer from the Regional Resident Mines Office in Mahenge, emphasized that spinel gemstones represent more than just a mineral resource they are a bridge connecting mining, trade, education, and tourism.
“With sustainable management, Mahenge has the potential to become one of Africa’s leading destinations for mineral tourism, contributing to both social and economic transformation,” said Eng. Ng’itu.
He added that the newly established Spinel Tourism Center features a gem museum, exhibition halls, and training programs for small-scale miners, ensuring that local communities benefit through both capacity building and economic participation.
As Mahenge’s gemstones continue to shine on the global stage, the region stands as a testament to Tanzania’s growing reputation as a destination where natural beauty meets economic opportunity.