The Tanzania Gemological Centre (TGC) has opened dedicated information centers to promote investment and value addition opportunities in the gemstones and precious metals sector.
The centers are located at the Arusha International Conference Centre (AICC) and Kilimanjaro International Airport (KIA).
TGC Manager, Eng. Ally Maganga, said the initiative is part of ongoing efforts to raise awareness of opportunities available across the gemstone value chain particularly among local and international visitors passing through the two strategic locations.
“The purpose of establishing these centers is to promote, educate and encourage greater understanding of value addition activities carried out in the gemstones and precious metals sector,” he said.
Eng. Maganga explained that the centers will serve as platforms to showcase the potential for job creation and entrepreneurship, especially among young people skilled in jewelry-making, gemstone cutting and polishing.
He added that the move is expected to attract investors interested in establishing processing industries that can produce finished gemstone products such as necklaces, rings, bracelets, earrings, beads, sculptures, trophies and other artistic items thereby increasing the country’s earnings from its mineral wealth.
In addition to promoting value addition, Eng. Maganga noted that the initiative will also support the growth of gemstone tourism by providing travelers and conference delegates with information about Tanzania’s gemstone heritage and the investment opportunities available in the sector.
Meanwhile, the Chairperson of the Association of Mineral Brokers, Mr. Jeremiah Kituyo, welcomed the initiative, saying it demonstrates the government’s commitment to strengthening collaboration with the private sector.
He observed that the centers will help expand commercial opportunities and encourage more structured trade in gemstones and precious metals, in line with the National Mineral Policy of 2009, which emphasizes value addition and increased local benefits from mineral resources.
“This is a significant step that opens the door for broader participation in the gemstone economy, ensuring that Tanzanians gain more value from the minerals found in their own country,” Mr. Kituyo said.
The establishment of the centers positions Tanzania to further strengthen its role as a regional hub for gemstone processing, promotion and trade.