The government has suspended the election of mineral brokers' leaders in Longido District, saying the exercise will only proceed after voters are adequately educated on their rights and election procedures in a move aimed at strengthening transparency and governance in Tanzania's mining sector.
Deputy Minister for Minerals, Dr Steven Kiruswa, issued the directive during a visit to Longido, Arusha Region, where he met miners, mineral traders and local government leaders.
He said the election had been postponed to ensure all participants understand the provisions of the brokers' constitution before casting their votes.
"We want an election that fully complies with the law and established procedures. Voters must first understand their rights and responsibilities so that the leaders elected enjoy legitimacy and the confidence of stakeholders," Dr Kiruswa said.
He directed the Tanzania Mineral Traders Association (CHAMMATA) to organise civic education for eligible voters before setting a new election date.
The deputy minister also warned against unlicensed mineral brokerage, reminding brokers that the Mining Act requires them to hold valid licences and carry identification bearing their licence numbers while conducting business.
He said enforcing the licensing regime would improve accountability, protect legitimate traders and strengthen government revenue collection from the mining industry.
The election directive came as Dr Kiruswa outlined broader reforms aimed at increasing productivity and sustainability in the sector.
He announced that the government has begun implementing President Samia Suluhu Hassan's directive to reinvest part of the mining sector's earnings into its long-term development, with 10 percent of sector revenues earmarked for mineral exploration.
The allocation will finance geological surveys by the Geological Survey of Tanzania (GST), enabling the institution to generate more scientific data on mineral-rich areas and reduce exploration risks for small-scale miners.
"Exploration is the backbone of a competitive mining industry. Reliable geological information will help miners invest with confidence, improve production and minimise unnecessary losses," he said.
According to Dr Kiruswa, increased investment in geological research is expected to accelerate the discovery of new mineral deposits, attract fresh investment, create jobs and expand the mining sector's contribution to the economy.
He also encouraged miners in Mundarara Village to enrol in the government's Mining for a Brighter Tomorrow (MBT) programme, which supports small-scale miners, women, young people and people with disabilities through training, technology, access to finance and value-addition opportunities.
CHAMMATA chairman Jeremiah Kituyo said the association would conduct the district election in accordance with its constitution once voter education is completed.
He said only members with valid association identification and mineral trading licences would be eligible to participate, adding that annual elections are intended to strengthen accountability and representation within mineral markets and buying centres.
Mr Kituyo said the association would continue working with the Ministry of Minerals to ensure the election is conducted transparently and in compliance with the law.
