The government has given Twiga Cement and Tanga Cement 48 hours to appear before authorities and explain allegations of violating government-set indicative prices and failing to provide contracts to suppliers of gypsum, a key industrial mineral.
Deputy Minister for Minerals, Dr. Steven Kiruswa, made the announcement today during a meeting with small-scale gypsum miners from Same District, Kilimanjaro Region, held at the Mining Commission offices in Dodoma.
He warned that companies ignoring the directive would face strict action, including suspension of operations.
“Disregarding the government’s call is a direct defiance of authority. If these companies do not appear within 48 hours, I will advise the Minister to revoke their licenses,” Dr. Kiruswa said.
The Deputy Minister emphasized that the companies must pay suppliers according to the official indicative prices, provide formal contracts, and stop buying at lower rates that disadvantage small-scale miners.
The directive follows complaints from miners in Same, who accused the companies of bypassing the Kilimanjaro Gypsum Cooperative Society Ltd and working with a few individuals at below-market prices and without contracts.
“Those selling below the indicative price are harming themselves. The government’s prices must be respected,” Dr. Kiruswa said, urging miners to remain calm as the matter is resolved.
He also ordered Same District Commissioner, Kasilda Mgeni, to involve the Prevention and Combating of Corruption Bureau (TAKUKURU) to investigate alleged corruption in the factories.
Mining Commission Commissioner, Dr. Theresia Numbi, stressed that issuing contracts is a legal requirement, not optional. “The cooperative must be involved. Allocate a percentage to the cooperative and the rest to those you w
sh to work with,” she said.
Small-scale Mining Empowerment Manager at STAMICO, Nchagwa Marwa, said the mining sector must be inclusive.
“Favoring individuals while ignoring the cooperative is unacceptable. Every Tanzanian should benefit from mineral resources. Our slogan is ‘Minerals are Life and Wealth.’ Indicative prices must be respected,” he added.
Deputy Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Minerals, Msafiri Mbibo, called on the companies to follow proper procedures, stressing that the government prioritizes local suppliers while expecting investors to protect citizens’ interests.
Same District Commissioner Kasilda Mgeni condemned the companies’ defiance, saying security in Makanya and Ruvu Kajiungeni has been affected by disputes among miners.
“All local leaders came to resolve the conflict and restore peace. Ignoring the government is ignoring the President’s authority. The ministry must take appropriate action, even if it means suspending the factories until a solution is found,” she said.
The government reaffirmed its commitment to protecting small-scale miners, enforcing indicative prices, and ensuring that the mining sector benefits all Tanzanians.