Tanzania has called on public servants in the mining sector to prioritize physical exercise as a strategy to improve health, strengthen institutional collaboration, and boost workplace productivity.
The message was delivered on January 24, 2026, in Dodoma by the Minister for Minerals, Anthony Mavunde, during the launch of the third Sports Bonanza for staff from the Ministry of Minerals and its affiliated institutions, including the Geological Survey of Tanzania (GST), the State Mining Corporation (STAMICO), the Mining Commission, and the Tanzania Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (TEITI).
Mr. Mavunde said regular physical exercise plays a critical role in maintaining good health, improving work efficiency, and strengthening unity among employees across institutions within the mining sector.
He encouraged staff to actively participate in sports and recreational activities as part of a broader effort to promote teamwork, discipline, and high performance in public service.
He also urged agencies under the ministry to intensify efforts to deliver tangible results and enhance the sector’s contribution to national development, stressing the importance of accountability and professionalism.
“We have a responsibility to serve Tanzanians with dedication and integrity. Sports provide an opportunity to strengthen our health, promote harmony, and build a stronger sense of unity within the mining sector,” Mr. Mavunde said.
The Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Minerals, Eng. Yahya Samamba, called on sector officials to manage mineral resources with greater responsibility, transparency, and ethical standards to ensure that the industry continues to benefit citizens and drive economic growth.
Eng. Samamba reported that the mining sector’s contribution to Tanzania’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) has reached 10.1 percent, while government revenue collections from the sector have climbed to Sh1.071 trillion, reflecting steady growth in performance.
He attributed the progress to the leadership of President Samia Suluhu Hassan and stronger institutional oversight, noting that reforms in regulation, safety, and enforcement have helped improve outcomes across the industry.
The Permanent Secretary also emphasized ongoing efforts to enhance safety in mining operations and urged strict compliance with health, safety, and environmental standards.
He directed Resident Mining Officers to ensure that hazardous open pits are sealed immediately and that disputes among miners are resolved promptly, particularly as rising gold prices continue to intensify mining activity.
Meanwhile, Eng. Ramadhani Lwamo, Executive Secretary of the Mining Commission, encouraged staff to uphold peace, unity, and cooperation in executing their duties, underscoring the role of collective responsibility in strengthening the sector.