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The Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office responsible for Regional Administration and Local Government (PMO-RALG), Prof. Riziki Shemdoe, has commended President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan and Barrick–Twiga Minerals for what he described as “bringing smiles to schools” through strategic discussions that have led to major investment in Tanzania’s education sector.
Prof. Shemdoe said the collaboration between the government and Barrick has resulted in more than 70 billion Tanzanian shillings being invested in the construction of classrooms, dormitories, and toilet facilities in 132 secondary schools across the country, significantly improving learning environments for students.
He made the remarks on July 2, 2026, at Kibaigwa Girls’ Secondary School in Kongwa District during the launch of a project for the development of Form Five and Six school infrastructure, funded through the partnership between the Government of Tanzania and Barrick–Twiga Minerals.
“I sincerely commend President Samia for recognizing Barrick as an important development partner, and I thank Barrick for investing in this important education sector,” said Prof. Shemdoe.
He explained that under the strong leadership of President Samia Suluhu Hassan, structured discussions were initiated between the government and Barrick to strengthen cooperation in supporting community development, particularly in the education sector.
These negotiations, he noted, resulted in the mobilization of over 70 billion shillings dedicated to improving school infrastructure across the country.
Prof. Shemdoe further directed the committee that participated in the initial 2023 negotiations with Barrick–Twiga Minerals to reopen discussions with the company.
He said the aim is to ensure a second phase of the project is secured, enabling additional funding for continued improvement of education infrastructure once the current phase is completed.
On behalf of Barrick–Twiga Minerals, Finance Manager Penina Kituku said the investment of over 70 billion shillings carries significant meaning for communities, as it directly improves teaching and learning environments and provides students with safer and more conducive conditions for study.
She added that the initiative reflects the company’s commitment to supporting national development priorities, particularly education, which plays a key role in building a skilled and competitive workforce.
Deputy Permanent Secretary in PMO-RALG responsible for education, Atupele Mwambene, said the project was designed to expand access to education for high-performing students advancing to Form Five and Six.
He noted that nationwide interventions include the construction of 1,090 classrooms, 270 dormitories, and 1,640 toilet units.
Speaking on behalf of Kibaigwa residents, Alex Sailemi expressed gratitude to the Sixth Phase Government under President Samia Suluhu Hassan, as well as Barrick–Twiga Minerals, for supporting the development of modern classrooms, dormitories, and sanitation facilities at Kibaigwa Girls’ Secondary School.
He said the investment has eased pressure on families and improved access to quality education for girls in the area, adding that the community values the partnership between the government and the mining sector in driving local development.
