By Our Reporter
Communities across Mara are beginning to witness visible social and economic improvements as mining companies step up their investment in local development, turning the region’s mineral wealth into practical gains for ordinary residents.
Over the last four years, more than 398 community projects worth TZS 33.81 billion have been implemented across all districts.
While mining revenues often dominate national discussions, local leaders in Mara say the real story lies in how these investments are improving day-to-day life.
Speaking recently on behalf of the Mara Regional Resident Mines Officer, Environmental Officer Byalugaba Chakupewa emphasized that the transformation is being driven by grassroots-focused Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives.
“In many villages, residents are now accessing services that were once out of reach,” he said, pointing to projects funded by companies such as ZEM (T) Co Ltd, Polygold, and MMG Gold Mine.
Their contributions ranging from dispensaries, classrooms, village offices to school kitchens continue to strengthen key social services and bring development closer to the people.
A major shift is also emerging among young people. Through the Mining for the Brighter Tomorrow (MBT) programme, 53 youth groups involving nearly 2,000 young people have been granted small-scale mining licenses.
The move is gradually reshaping livelihoods, giving young residents a direct stake in the region’s mineral economy.
For large-scale investors, local development has become part of their operational identity. At Barrick North Mara, Corporate Relations Manager Francis Uhadi said the mine has invested TZS 26 billion in community projects since 2019, with an additional USD 1.8 million set aside annually for surrounding communities. The mine also contributes over TZS 2 billion in royalties every quarter.
Uhadi noted that more than 500 students have benefited from the mine’s education fund, though he acknowledged that many communities still grapple with identifying long-term priorities.
This challenge has pushed the company to design a five-year plan targeting basic needs such as clean water and road access.
One example is the newly constructed 300,000-litre water tank now serving Matongo, Mjini Kati, Nyabichune and Nyang’oto villages. Residents say the water issue had persisted for years.
Today, the tank not only supplies households but also supports health facilities and schools an achievement confirmed by Nyamongo Water Board Chairperson, Dotto Manyeli, who said the project has created 20 jobs and stabilized water access.
Local suppliers are also finding their footing. Rhobi Alphonce, who runs Roebray Enterprises & Supplies Ltd, said working with the mine has expanded their business capacity.
While staff management remains a challenge, he said local companies are rapidly adapting to meet professional standards required by large mining operations.
In classrooms, the impact is equally clear. Nyabichune Secondary School Headmaster, Innocent Mushi, said the science laboratory built by Barrick has brought practical learning to life.
Students who once relied solely on theory now conduct hands-on experiments, improving performance and boosting interest in science subjects.
Across Mara, stories like these are becoming more common as mining companies deepen their engagement with surrounding communities.
The shift signals a growing understanding that mineral wealth must translate into better services, stronger institutions and, ultimately, improved livelihoods.
For many residents, that transformation is no longer a promise it is a lived experience.
