The Government has officially launched plans to transform the former Buzwagi gold mine in Kahama District into a major industrial park, aimed at producing mining-related goods and services and positioning Tanzania as a key manufacturing hub south of the Sahara.
The initiative follows the conclusion of mining operations at Buzwagi and is being implemented under the directives of President Samia Suluhu Hassan, who has urged that the site be repurposed to drive industrialisation and economic growth.
Speaking during an inspection of the Buzwagi Industrial Park on Saturday, Minister for Minerals, Anthony Mavunde, said the government has earmarked the area for industrial development, particularly in sectors linked to mining.
“President Samia wants Buzwagi to become a centre of industrial growth that contributes to both regional and national economies,” Minister Mavunde said.
The plan envisages establishing more than 15 factories manufacturing mining equipment, consumables, and related products, while over 30 investors have already expressed interest in the project.
The targeted sectors include energy, education, mineral processing, and the production of industrial spare parts for mining operations.
Minister Mavunde highlighted that the Buzwagi mine had historically been a major economic driver for Kahama.
Its closure could have affected district revenues and local livelihoods, but the industrial park will create new employment opportunities especially for youth while boosting economic activities in the area.
“Already, more than 30 investors are interested in setting up operations at Buzwagi, and East Africa Conveyors Supplies has begun producing mining products locally, reducing reliance on imports,” he said.
The minister further announced that Tembo Nickel Company will build a multi-metal refinery within the industrial park, which will be among the largest in Africa.
The facility will employ advanced hydrometallurgical technology that uses minimal electricity compared to traditional smelting methods, aligning with the government’s push for efficient and environmentally friendly industrial processes.
Shinyanga Regional Commissioner, Mboni Mhita, praised the Ministry of Minerals for adopting strategic economic interventions.
He said the industrial park will unlock investment opportunities, stimulate economic growth, and benefit communities from the regional to national level.
“Buzwagi already has strong infrastructure, including electricity and water supply, making it an attractive investment location for both local and foreign investors,” Mhita said.
Tanzania Investment and Special Economic Zones Authority (TISEZA) Director General, Gilead Teri, said the government, in collaboration with investors, has officially established the Buzwagi Special Economic Zone (SEZ).
“The SEZ will serve as a centre for production, processing, and distribution of mining products to markets in Tanzania, East Africa, and Central Africa,” Teri said.
He added that the initiative has already attracted several local and international companies that have signed agreements to start production, creating jobs, enhancing skills among local workers, and contributing to national revenue.
Members of Parliament for Kahama Urban and Msalala, Benjamin Ngayiwa and Mabula Magangila, welcomed the initiative, describing it as a vital step towards revitalising Kahama’s economy and expanding employment opportunities for residents.
The Buzwagi Industrial Park is expected to play a central role in advancing Tanzania’s industrialisation agenda, strengthening local manufacturing capacity in the mining sector, and reducing dependence on imported mining products.