The government has launched the construction of a TZS14.3 billion state-of-the-art minerals laboratory in Dodoma, a project expected to strengthen Tanzania's mineral testing capacity and position the country as a regional hub for laboratory services in Sub-Saharan Africa.
Minister for Minerals Anthony Mavunde said the facility, being built by the Geological Survey of Tanzania (GST) at Kizota, will provide internationally accredited mineral testing services to clients from Tanzania and neighbouring countries, reducing reliance on foreign laboratories and improving efficiency across the mining value chain.
Speaking during an inspection of the project on July 15, Mr Mavunde said the investment reflects the government's commitment to modernising the mining sector and supporting mineral exploration, processing and trade.
"The laboratory will enhance the quality and reliability of mineral analysis and enable Tanzania to offer world-class laboratory services to countries across East and Central Africa," he said.
Mr Mavunde said the project will also address long-standing challenges faced by small-scale miners, who have often experienced delays and limited access to laboratory services for mineral sample testing.
He noted that the new facility will increase testing capacity, shorten turnaround times and provide accurate analytical results, helping miners make informed investment and production decisions.
GST Chief Executive Officer Ally Samaje said construction of the laboratory is progressing as planned and is expected to be completed by September 2027.
He said the project, valued at more than TZS14.3 billion, will be equipped with advanced technology capable of handling a wide range of mineral analyses for both domestic and international clients.
Once completed, the laboratory is expected to strengthen Tanzania's geological research and mineral certification capabilities while supporting the country's ambition to become a leading centre for mineral laboratory services in the region.
