The issuance of small-scale mining licenses in Bukombe District, Geita Region, is transforming the local economy, creating jobs, and improving community infrastructure, officials and residents say.
Since the government granted official licenses, over 10,000 small-scale miners have registered at Msasa Gold Mine, bringing order and structure to mining activities in the area.
Cosmas Ignas Bongo, Managing Director of Msasa Gold Mine, said the licenses have helped miners operate legally while contributing to local development.
“In a short period, miners have supported community projects, including the renovation of the local ward office and the construction of a deep clean water well,” Bongo told journalists.
He emphasized that following mining regulations is key to sustaining these gains and avoiding operational disruptions.
Safety in mining areas has also improved. James Balele, Chief Safety Inspector at Msasa Gold Mine, said his team inspects over 200 pits daily to ensure secure working conditions and prevent accidents. “Since mining began, there have been no incidents endangering miners’ lives,” he noted.
Local businesses have benefited significantly from increased mining activities. Trader Suzana Ndasa said her daily sales have risen from TZS 460,000–900,000 to between TZS 700,000 and TZS 1,000,000.
“The licenses have brought stability to the sector, and my business is thriving,” she said. Ndasa plans to continue operating under safety and management guidelines to grow her income further.
Miners themselves are seeing the benefits. Paul John said designated mining areas have reduced conflicts that previously disrupted operations, allowing miners to focus on production.
Bukombe MP Dr. Doto Biteko said mining has become a key driver of economic activity in Runzewe Ushirombo town, which now receives hundreds of miners and traders daily.
He encouraged residents to take advantage of opportunities arising from the transfer of Kigosi Forest from TANAPA to TFS and the government’s licensing initiatives.
Community leaders also praised Msasa Gold Mine management for providing free working areas and facilitating smooth operations.
Tomas Elisha, a local resident, said the partnership between miners, government, and the mine is improving livelihoods across the village.
Meanwhile, Minister of Minerals Anthony Mavunde said the government remains committed to empowering small-scale miners through the “Mining for a Brighter Tomorrow (MBT)” initiative.
The program provides miners with capital, technology, and geological data, benefiting over 12,000 people so far.
Minister Mavunde added that mining companies are required to implement community projects in education, health, water, roads, and agriculture to ensure the sector supports broader development.
With livelihoods improving, businesses thriving, and community projects underway, Bukombe is emerging as a model for how regulated small-scale mining can drive local economic growth and social development.