The Government, through the Ministry of Minerals, has announced plans to construct a new model mineral processing training centre in Mwakitolyo, Shinyanga Region, as part of efforts to strengthen skills development and increase value addition in the mining sector.
The announcement was made on April 15, 2026, in Parliament in Dodoma by the Deputy Minister for Minerals, Dr. Steven Kiruswa, while responding to a question from Special Seats Member of Parliament Mwanahamisi Athuman, who sought clarification on the government’s plan to establish a mining training institution in Shinyanga.
Dr. Kiruswa said the government recognizes the strategic importance of Shinyanga Region in the mining industry, noting its long history of mineral activities and its potential to contribute significantly to the national economy if supported with adequate skills and technology.
He said the new Mwakitolyo centre will be developed as a model facility for mineral processing training, with a focus on practical skills that will enable miners to add value to minerals instead of exporting raw materials.
The centre is expected to benefit young people and women by equipping them with technical knowledge in mineral exploration, extraction, and processing.
According to Dr. Kiruswa, the initiative is part of the government’s broader strategy to improve the mining value chain and increase employment opportunities, especially for youth in mineral-rich regions.
He added that while the new centre is being prepared, the government continues to use existing mining training institutions located in Dar es Salaam and Tabora to provide education and technical skills in the sector.
Dr. Kiruswa further encouraged young people across the country to take advantage of training opportunities offered by government institutions, including the Tanzania Gemological Centre (TGC) and the Minerals Resources Institute (MRI).
He said these institutions are key in building a skilled workforce in gemstones, mining technology, and mineral processing, which are essential for improving productivity and ensuring that Tanzanians benefit more from their natural resources.
The government says the expansion of such training facilities is aimed at ensuring that the mining sector becomes more inclusive, competitive, and beneficial to local communities through skills development and value addition.
