Leaders of small-scale miners under the Federation of Miners Associations of Tanzania (FEMATA) have been urged to strengthen patriotism and integrity in managing the country’s mineral resources to ensure the wealth benefits all Tanzanians, both today and in the future.
The call was made by the Commissioner for Minerals, Dr. AbdulRahman Mwanga, during a capacity-building session for small-scale miners and mineral traders held in Dodoma.
Dr. Mwanga said Tanzania’s mineral resources remain a key pillar of the national economy, offering opportunities for citizens to benefit directly through government revenue and development projects.
He noted that the sector also supports communities through Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives and local content programs that create jobs and promote inclusive growth.
He stressed that mining must go hand in hand with environmental protection, warning that irresponsible mining practices can damage ecosystems and affect community livelihoods.
He also reminded stakeholders to comply with occupational safety standards to protect the lives and health of miners working in the sector.
On illegal mineral trade, Dr. Mwanga strongly warned against smuggling, saying it is against the Mining Act, Cap. 123 and other national laws.
He urged FEMATA leaders to avoid any involvement in illegal networks, emphasizing that such practices deprive the country of important revenue needed for development.
He explained that mineral smuggling leads to serious economic losses, including reduced tax collection and slowed national development.
He said strengthening transparency and accountability in the mineral value chain remains a priority for the government.
Speaking on behalf of the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Minerals, Director of Policy and Planning Augustino Olal said the training is part of a strategic government initiative to strengthen leadership capacity in the mining sector.
He said the goal is to improve decision-making, promote good governance, and increase productivity in mining activities across the country.
The Managing Director of the State Mining Corporation (STAMICO), Dr. Venance Mwase, said the training targets leaders overseeing various FEMATA committees.
He said it is designed to equip them with practical knowledge to improve coordination, leadership skills, and cooperation among stakeholders in the sector.
He added that stronger leadership will help improve efficiency in mining operations and strengthen collaboration between miners, government institutions, and private sector players.
FEMATA President John Bina welcomed the initiative and appealed to STAMICO to extend similar training to local government leaders.
He said this would help improve understanding of mining laws and regulations at the grassroots level, reducing conflicts and improving coordination in mining areas.
He emphasized that shared knowledge among stakeholders is important for building trust and ensuring smooth operations within the mining value chain.
The Chairperson of the Tanzania Salt Producers Association (TAPSA), Hawa Ghasia, commended the Ministry of Minerals through STAMICO for addressing several challenges facing the sector.
She said out of 13 identified challenges, seven have already been resolved, while efforts are ongoing to address the remaining issues.
She also praised the government for improving infrastructure in salt production areas and constructing a modern salt processing plant, which is close to completion. She said these efforts will boost production and add value to locally produced salt.
Representatives from other associations, including the Tanzania Women Miners Association (TAWOMA) and CHAWATA, also praised the Ministry of Minerals for maintaining strong cooperation with stakeholders.
They said continued collaboration between the government and mining associations is key to ensuring sustainable growth, transparency, and fair distribution of benefits in the sector.
The training in Dodoma is part of ongoing government efforts to promote responsible mining, strengthen leadership, and ensure that Tanzania’s mineral wealth contributes effectively to national development and the well-being of all citizens.
