Communities living around mining areas are set to benefit further from development projects as the government strengthens efforts to ensure mineral wealth contributes to improving citizens’ livelihoods.
Minister for Minerals Anthony Mavunde has launched key projects in Geita, including student dormitories and a modern X-ray facility, saying the initiatives reflect the impact of reforms requiring mining companies to support communities around their operations.
The minister laid the foundation stone for the construction of dormitories at Nyamwilolelwa and Mtakuja Secondary Schools, a project funded by Geita Gold Mining Limited (GGML) in partnership with Geita District Council through the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programme.
The project, worth more than TZS 291 million, is expected to improve the learning environment and increase opportunities for students, particularly girls, by addressing challenges related to accommodation.
Speaking during the event, Mr Mavunde said amendments to the Mining Act had strengthened the role of mining companies in supporting social and economic development in communities where they operate.
He said the policy has enabled mining companies to implement projects in education, health, water, roads and other sectors, ensuring that local communities benefit from the country’s mineral resources.
“Mining must go hand in hand with community development. The relationship between mining companies and surrounding communities should continue to be strengthened so that citizens see direct benefits from the sector,” Mr Mavunde said.
The minister also inaugurated a modern X-ray services building at Kasota Village, bringing essential health diagnostic services closer to residents and neighbouring areas.
The facility was constructed through government support provided under efforts led by President Dr Samia Suluhu Hassan to improve healthcare access and strengthen medical services across the country.
At a public meeting in Saragulwa Village, Mr Mavunde said the government was working to address long-standing challenges affecting residents, including access to land for farming, livestock keeping and regulated mining activities.
He added that the government would continue working with local leaders and stakeholders to ensure mining activities create wider economic opportunities while protecting the interests of communities.
The minister praised Geita Regional authorities for effective supervision of development projects, saying government investments in water, electricity, roads and health services were translating into improved services for citizens.
Geita Regional Commissioner Martin Shigela thanked President Samia’s administration for continued investment in development projects and pledged to ensure proper monitoring of their implementation.
He said the regional government would continue working with mining companies and communities to promote sustainable development and ensure residents benefit from economic activities taking place in the region.
