Rukwa Region is positioning itself as Tanzania’s next major corridor for emerald mining, as government authorities and sector stakeholders intensify calls for young people to tap into the rapidly expanding opportunities in the mineral-rich region.
During an inspection visit to the Mponda mining zone in Sumbawanga District, the Rukwa Resident Mining Officer, Eng. Joseph Kumburu, reaffirmed that the region holds significant deposits of emerald one of the world’s rarest and most valuable gemstones.
He revealed that two companies Tanzania’s Trinity Company Limited and an Indian-based investor have already expressed firm interest in developing mining operations in partnership with small-scale miners.
Eng. Kumburu noted that emerald commands premium prices in the international market, explaining that even low-grade stones fetch around USD 100 per carat (approximately TZS 246,000). High-quality emeralds, he added, can sell for between USD 5,000 and 10,000 per carat, making the sector an attractive investment avenue.
He urged young people to capitalize on the growing momentum, pointing out that more than 10 local investors came forward last year following technical training offered by the mining office in collaboration with the Regional Commissioner’s Office.
To accommodate the rising interest, the region has earmarked 13,000 hectares for the issuance of 700 small-scale mining licences.
Beyond emeralds, Rukwa is also drawing investors to its copper and titanium deposits, which are gaining traction both locally and internationally.
Liberatus Suleiman, the licence holder for the Mponda emerald site, lauded the government for its support and said preparations for essential mining infrastructure are already underway.
“We appreciate the cooperation from the Rukwa mining office. We are now finalizing key infrastructure before formal extraction begins,” he said, encouraging young people to join the sector, which he described as capable of producing “the country’s next generation of billionaires.”
Masie Mwambene, Chairperson of the Rukwa Region Miners Association, commended ongoing government efforts but urged the Mining Commission to intensify its promotion of mineral opportunities to attract wider investment, create employment, and strengthen technical expertise within the region.
He noted a surge in youth interest, attributing it to continuous education and outreach by mining professionals.
Mwambene emphasized that the growth of the emerald subsector is expected to deliver broad socio-economic benefits, including job creation, improved road and power infrastructure, and strengthened local economies in surrounding communities.
He encouraged young Tanzanians to pursue science and technical studies to better position themselves for emerging opportunities within the mining industry.