Mining and explosives inspectors have been directed to improve efficiency in their work and strengthen safety oversight in mines to reduce accidents, protect workers, safeguard the environment and secure the country’s mineral wealth.
The directive was issued in Mwanza by Mining Commission Chairperson Dr Janet Lekashingo during the opening of the Fifth Annual Meeting of Mining and Explosives Inspectors.
Dr Lekashingo said inspectors hold a crucial responsibility in ensuring mining operations are carried out safely, efficiently and in compliance with the country’s laws, regulations and operational standards.
She noted that mining remains among the most high-risk industries, making strong supervision essential to guarantee sustainable extraction activities without endangering lives or harming the environment.
“Effective inspection is critical in ensuring mining activities contribute to national development while maintaining safety and environmental standards,” she said.
Dr Lekashingo also praised officials and employees of the Mining Commission for exceeding the institution’s 2025/26 revenue target ahead of schedule.
She said the commission had aimed to collect Sh1.2 trillion during the financial year, but by May 18, 2026, collections had already reached Sh1.203 trillion, equivalent to 100.31 percent of the target.
The achievement, she said, reflects improved oversight, accountability and commitment in managing Tanzania’s mining sector.
She added that the government, through the commission, would continue improving working conditions and providing better equipment to enable inspectors to discharge their duties more effectively.
Representing the Executive Secretary of the Mining Commission, Engineer Ramadhani Lwamo, the commission’s Director of Licensing, Eng. Aziza Swedi, called on inspectors to embrace innovation and fully utilise their professional expertise in supervising mining operations.
She urged inspectors to invest in professional development to keep pace with changing technology and modern inspection methods increasingly shaping the mining industry.
Eng. Swedi also underscored the importance of integrity and impartiality in delivering services to mining sector stakeholders.
“Any inspector whose conduct damages the reputation of the profession will face strict ethical action, including immediate cancellation of appointment,” she said.
Speaking at the meeting, Director of Mine Inspection and Environment, Eng. Hamisi Kamando, said the department is mandated to oversee mining activities from the early operational stages through to mine closure.
He said the department also monitors safety, occupational health, environmental management and compliance with mining laws to ensure the sector generates benefits for the country without undermining the wellbeing of nearby communities and the environment.
