The government has intensified efforts to empower small-scale miners, placing strong emphasis on safety, environmental protection and increased productivity as part of a broader strategy to boost the mining sector’s contribution to the national economy.
The move was announced on April 23, 2026, in Kahama District, Shinyanga Region, where Mining Commission Licensing Services Director, Engineer Aziza Swedi, opened a capacity-building training for mine managers and chief mine inspectors on behalf of Executive Secretary Engineer Ramadhani Lwamo.
The training brought together stakeholders from key mining districts of Kahama, Mbogwe and Shinyanga, focusing on strengthening technical expertise, improving mine management, enforcing compliance with regulations and promoting safe, responsible mining practices.
Eng. Swedi said the government is committed to creating an enabling environment for chief mine inspectors and small-scale miners to operate efficiently, noting that effective supervision is critical in preventing accidents, protecting workers’ health and preserving the environment.
She stressed that collaboration among stakeholders remains essential in achieving meaningful progress, particularly through the active role of mine managers and inspectors in enforcing safety standards and legal requirements.
“The government’s goal is to ensure mining activities continue to support national development while safeguarding the environment, workers and surrounding communities,” she said.
The initiative aligns with the vision of President Samia Suluhu Hassan to increase the mining sector’s contribution to Gross Domestic Product from 10 percent to 12.5 percent by 2030.
According to Eng. Swedi, small-scale miners already account for about 40 percent of mineral sector revenues, making them a vital pillar of the economy.
She urged mine owners to maintain proper production records and ensure transparency to enable timely government revenue collection.
She also warned against unsafe mining practices, highlighting the dangers of improper use of chemicals such as mercury and cyanide, as well as exposure to silica dust, which can cause serious illnesses including silicosis, tuberculosis and cancer.
Mining Inspection and Environment Director, Engineer Hamisi Kamando, called for regular submission of inspection reports to help authorities detect risks early and take preventive action.
He noted that challenges such as non-compliance with regulations, poor record-keeping, tax evasion and mineral smuggling still persist in some areas, underscoring the importance of continued training to build a culture of accountability and professionalism in the sector.
“We want every miner to go to work safely and return home safely. Human life must always come first,” he said.
Shinyanga Regional Small-Scale Miners Association (SHIREMA) chairman, Hamza Tandiko, emphasised the need for professionalism and accurate reporting in mining operations, while acknowledging the contribution of inspectors in improving safety and reducing accidents.
The government’s renewed focus signals a strategic shift towards making small-scale mining safer, more organised and more impactful in driving Tanzania’s economic growth.
