Residents of Mazengo Street in Zuzu Ward, Dodoma City, have called on the government to urgently intervene and halt ongoing construction mineral extraction activities in their area, citing serious threats to their safety and environmental damage.
The appeal was made during a visit by Zuzu Ward Councillor, Jenesta Malingo, who toured the area to listen to residents’ concerns and provide feedback on actions taken by the ward leadership regarding the disputed quarry.
Speaking at different moments during the meeting, residents expressed fear over the depth of the quarry located near their homes, as well as reports of fatalities that have occurred in the area.
“We are asking the government to immediately stop these activities. Our lives are in danger. This pit is very deep, and if it fills with water, it could cause a major disaster,” said one resident.
They added that although some young people benefit from employment at the site, their safety should be prioritized over economic interests.
Responding to the concerns, Councillor Jenesta Malingo stated that the ward leadership had already taken several steps to address the issue, including conducting a site visit to assess the risks involved.
She explained that following the assessment, they recommended that the investor be relocated to another area away from residential zones to protect the lives of citizens.
“As a ward, we do not have the authority to issue or revoke licenses, but we have the responsibility to advise. We submitted our recommendations to the relevant authorities, and the City Director had already issued instructions to revoke the mining license in this area,” said Malingo.
However, she noted that despite these directives, mining authorities have continued to allow the investor to operate, creating confusion and increasing complaints from residents.
“It is true there is a challenge in implementing decisions. While we and the city leadership have highlighted the risks and called for a suspension, the investor has continued operations after being permitted by mining authorities,” she clarified.
The councillor emphasized that she will continue to closely follow up on the matter to ensure the safety of residents is protected, while calling on responsible authorities to take swift and lasting action.
In another development, she encouraged youth who depend on income from the quarry to form groups so they can benefit from government loans and engage in alternative economic activities.
The visit also provided an opportunity for residents to raise other concerns, including challenges related to electricity, employment, and infrastructure. The councillor promised to address them in collaboration with various stakeholders.
Residents of Mazengo reiterated their demand for immediate government action to eliminate the dangers posed by the quarry, stressing that their safety should come before such activities.
Some residents also expressed appreciation for the visit, saying it gave them a platform to voice their concerns and receive clarifications on various issues.
Ms. Christina Mkobalo said the visit helped residents open up and share long-standing challenges, while Mr. Pascal Manyilika noted that the education provided improved their understanding of development issues and how to communicate their concerns to leaders.
The three-day tour by Hon. Malingo began on March 17, 2026, and is expected to conclude on March 19, 2026, covering the areas of Chididimo, Sokoine, Pinda, Mazengo, and Soweto.
The councillor urged residents to actively participate in such meetings to contribute ideas that will help improve development in Zuzu Ward.
