The Ministry of Minerals has launched a major drive to implement directives from President Samia Suluhu Hassan aimed at transforming Tanzania’s mining sector into a key engine of economic growth and citizen prosperity.
The directives, issued in several national addresses including the opening of the 13th Parliament, the swearing-in of Cabinet Ministers, the 100-day campaign promises, and the CCM 2025–2030 manifesto focus on maximizing the value of the country’s mineral resources, ensuring that they benefit Tanzanians directly while contributing to national development.
Speaking at a two-day management workshop in Dodoma on November 24–25, 2025, Minister for Minerals Anthony Mavunde said the President envisions a sector that drives economic activity, supports development projects, and generates wealth for the nation.
“The President expects that Tanzania’s mineral resources are not only exploited but managed to provide real benefits to the people, boosting production and strengthening our economy,” said Mavunde.
He emphasized that achieving these goals requires dedication, innovation, and speed from the Ministry and its agencies.
“These directives are not optional. They demand commitment and creativity to ensure reforms in the mining sector translate into tangible benefits for citizens and contribute more to national income,” he added.
As part of the plan, Mavunde directed the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry to convene technical experts and coal producers to address challenges, gather their input, and identify strategies to boost coal production.
“There is strong demand for coal from steel and manufacturing industries in neighbouring countries. Supporting our producers will expand their businesses and increase government revenue,” he said.
The Minister also highlighted the government’s plan to establish an Export Guarantee Scheme, enabling Tanzanian miners to access local capital for their operations instead of relying on foreign financing.
“This will allow more investment in Tanzania, create jobs, and keep wealth within the country,” he noted.
Mavunde further called for shifting gold and gemstone trading from Dubai to Tanzania, aiming to make regions such as Geita, Chunya, Kahama, and Arusha hubs for mineral trade, boosting local value addition and economic benefits.
The workshop also emphasized increasing government revenue, strengthening sector governance, promoting youth and women’s participation, and expanding employment opportunities through mining activities.
Deputy Minister Dr. Steve Kiruswa urged Ministry staff to uphold professionalism, integrity, and discipline in their work, saying that efficient and ethical execution of duties is key to safeguarding national resources and boosting government income.
Permanent Secretary Eng. Yahya Samamba stressed the importance of value addition in the mining sector, highlighting its potential to create jobs, strengthen the domestic economy, and increase the sector’s contribution to national GDP.
Earlier, Commissioner for Minerals Dr. AbdulRahman Mwanga outlined 14 priority areas highlighted by President Samia to guide the sustainable development and growth of Tanzania’s mining sector.
With these strategies, the government aims to ensure that Tanzania becomes a hub for mineral trade in Africa, benefiting citizens directly while driving national development.