Mahenge, located in Ulanga District, Morogoro, is gaining growing international recognition for its rare and precious spinel gemstones. This development positions the area as a new hotspot for mineral tourism in Tanzania.
Engineer Penina Mtego, the site manager at Ruby International Mine in Epanko village, revealed on November 10, 2025, that the decision to establish a Spinel Gemstone Tourism Centre was driven by the exceptional quality of Mahenge spinel, whose brilliance often appears as if crafted in a laboratory.
“This unique quality attracts gemstone traders, researchers, and international stakeholders who travel to Mahenge to witness where the gemstones are mined and stored,” said Eng. Mtego.
She explained that Mahenge spinels are globally admired for their rare beauty and vivid pinkish-red color, which places them as the top choice among international gem collectors and dealers.
“Mahenge spinel continues to feature prominently at global gem exhibitions, including the Tucson Gem Show in the United States, the Hong Kong Jewellery Fair, and Bangkok’s Gem and Jewelry Exhibition, placing Tanzania among the world’s leading sources of high-quality gemstones,” she added.
The Spinel Tourism Centre features a gemstone museum, exhibition areas, and training facilities for small-scale miners.
Salehe Mbura, head of production at the mine, noted that the presence of the gemstones has inspired a growing form of niche tourism known as mineral tourism.
“Visitors come to tour mines, learn about gemstone formation, observe artisanal mining, and engage in trade or research,” he said.
Mineral tourism has boosted Mahenge’s local economy by creating new employment opportunities in accommodation, transport, gemstone trading, and cultural activities.
Meanwhile, Engineer Joseph Ng’itu, a Mining Officer from the Mahenge Resident Mines Office, emphasized that spinel gemstones are not only a valuable national resource but also a bridge linking mining, business, education, and tourism.
“With sustainable management, Mahenge has the potential to become a hub for mineral tourism in Africa, driving both social and economic development,” he noted.
