By The Respondents Reporter
Tanzania is taking a major step forward in its drive to add value to minerals domestically, as construction of a new nickel and copper processing and smelting plant in Mayamaya, Bahi District, nears completion.
The project, now 85 percent finished, reflects President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s directive to ensure minerals are processed within the country before export an approach aimed at boosting national revenue, creating jobs, and supporting local industries.
During an inspection tour on November 21, 2025, Minister for Minerals Anthony Mavunde said the factory will begin operating its first production line in February 2026, with the ability to process 300 tonnes of ore per day.
He described the investment valued at TZS 37 billion as a transformative opportunity for Tanzanians, particularly small-scale miners.
“This factory provides a guaranteed and formal market for small-scale miners,” said Mavunde. “It is time for our miners to benefit directly from value addition instead of selling raw minerals at low prices.”
The Minister emphasised that building processing factories is a strategic move to expand the full mineral value chain.
By exporting refined products rather than raw minerals, Tanzania stands to gain higher returns, improve industrial competitiveness, and strengthen the mining sector’s contribution to the economy.
Bahi District Commissioner Joachimu Nyingo praised the government for positioning Dodoma as a growing hub for mineral processing.
With this project, he said, the region now hosts nine value-addition factories evidence of the government’s commitment to supporting industrial development at the regional level.
Project supervisor Hassan Ngaiza noted that the plant will bring significant economic and social benefits.
It is expected to create more than 300 jobs, provide stable markets for mineral inputs, and support the development of auxiliary businesses and services around the factory.
Thobias Kente, Chairperson of the Tanzania Metal Small-Scale Miners Association, commended Zhong Zhou the company building the plant for its commitment to completing the project on schedule.
He said the factory’s timely delivery will secure a reliable market for small-scale metal miners nationwide.
Once operational, the Mayamaya processing plant is expected to support Tanzania’s long-term vision of strengthening mineral value addition, increasing export earnings, and empowering local miners.
The project represents a broader national effort to turn mineral wealth into industrial growth and sustainable economic opportunities for citizens.