The newly established Singida Mineral Market is transforming the mineral trade in the region, benefiting small-scale miners, processors, and traders.
Stakeholders say the market has introduced transparency, fairness, and efficiency through a digital indicative pricing system.
Speaking at the market, Geologist Mbeleye David from the Regional Resident Mining Officer’s Office said the market has brought significant gains for small-scale miners. It provides mechanisms to protect them from fraud and price exploitation.
“Before these markets were set up, Singida recorded minimal production, averaging only 100 to 200 grams. Today, small-scale miners coordinate production ranging from 50 to 60 kilograms, showing improved efficiency and trust in the system,” David said.
The government has introduced a strong indicative pricing system to ensure small-scale miners are not underpaid.
The market is also equipped with a modern X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF) machine, which tests gold quality. This ensures minerals are sold based on accurate standards and real value.
Unlike before, when indicative prices were only for raw gold, the market now displays prices for several minerals, including gold, copper, and silver, on a digital board. This has increased transparency and reduced opportunities for fraud.
David said the technology has simplified market operations, including mineral valuation and issuance of transport permits for domestic use and export, which are now processed faster and more efficiently.
Mineral trader Abubakari Omary said education remains key for small-scale miners and traders.
“Understanding how the indicative prices work ensures that all stakeholders know their rights and responsibilities and trade fairly,” he said.
Stakeholders also praised the system for allowing unlicensed miners to register and sell minerals directly in the market without relying on a trader’s license, removing a major barrier that existed before.
Overall, the Singida Mineral Market is a key driver for the region’s mining sector. It enhances transparency, strengthens safety in trade, and boosts government revenue by regulating and preventing mineral smuggling.
