The Bank of Tanzania (BoT) has approved SAB GOLD Limited Refinery in Kahama District, Shinyanga Region, as an official centre for receiving and refining gold under the Domestic Gold Purchase Programme (DGPP), in a move expected to strengthen formal gold trade and boost the country’s foreign exchange reserves.
The Mining Commission announced on Friday that the refinery will officially begin operations under the programme from May 30, 2026, marking another step in the government’s efforts to streamline Tanzania’s gold value chain and increase participation of licensed local operators in the sector.
The DGPP, spearheaded by the central bank, enables BoT to purchase gold produced within the country through authorised channels as part of wider measures to build national reserves, improve transparency in mineral trading and support economic stability.
In a public notice addressed to miners, mineral dealers and other stakeholders, the Commission said the refinery had been formally authorised to receive and process gold intended for purchase by the central bank.
Mining sector analysts say the expansion of authorised refining and buying centres is likely to improve accessibility for small- and medium-scale miners, particularly in key gold-producing regions, while reducing dependence on informal markets.
The move also aligns with ongoing reforms in Tanzania’s mining sector aimed at increasing value addition within the country and ensuring that more benefits from mineral resources remain in the domestic economy.
Stakeholders seeking clarification on procedures under the programme have been advised to contact Dr Anna Lyimo or Mr Joshua Maganga through the contacts provided in the notice.
The announcement was signed by Eng. Aziza Z. Swedi on behalf of the Executive Secretary of the Mining Commission and issued from the Commission’s headquarters in Dodoma on May 29, 2026.
