Tanzania is intensifying geological and mineral research to unlock new investment opportunities, support job creation and increase the contribution of the mining sector to the national economy as the country works towards achieving the goals of Development Vision 2050.
The Geological Survey of Tanzania (GST) says improved access to reliable geological data will help investors identify mineral potential, reduce exploration risks and encourage the establishment of new mining projects.
Speaking at the Nanenane International Agricultural Exhibition in Dodoma, GST Executive Director Eng. Ally Samaje said the institution has made significant progress in mapping the country’s mineral potential, providing a foundation for sustainable growth of the mining industry.
He said geological mapping has now covered 98 percent of Tanzania’s land area, while low-resolution airborne geophysical surveys have reached full coverage.
“These achievements provide investors and other stakeholders with important information to guide exploration and investment decisions,” Eng. Samaje said.
He added that GST is expanding high-resolution airborne geophysical surveys, which currently cover 16 percent of the country, through a new programme aimed at increasing detailed understanding of mineral deposits.
The first phase of the programme will cover about 18 percent of Tanzania’s territory, raising coverage to 34 percent after completion. A contractor has already been identified to undertake the work.
The next phase will focus on central Tanzania, covering approximately 19 percent of the country, a move expected to push high-resolution surveys beyond 50 percent before 2030.
Eng. Samaje said GST is also increasing geochemical research, with coverage currently standing at 24 percent. During the current financial year, the institution plans to conduct surveys in 18 additional areas to raise coverage to 30 percent.
He said the research will particularly benefit small-scale miners by providing scientific information that will enable them to identify mineral-rich areas instead of relying on trial-and-error methods.
“Reliable geological information will help miners increase production, improve incomes and reduce losses from investing in areas without proper data,” he said.
The GST chief executive added that verified research findings would also strengthen small-scale miners’ ability to access financial support from banks and other lending institutions by providing confidence in mining projects.
The expansion of mineral research activities has been supported by the Mineral Research Fund, which receives 10 percent of revenues generated from the mining sector to finance exploration activities.
Eng. Samaje thanked the government under President Dr Samia Suluhu Hassan for establishing the fund, saying it has provided an important boost to mineral research efforts.
The increased investment in geological studies is expected to strengthen Tanzania’s mining value chain, promote new discoveries, support mineral-based industries and increase the sector’s contribution to economic growth.
Analysts say improved geological information is a key requirement for attracting responsible investment, particularly as Tanzania seeks to maximise the benefits of its mineral resources in line with the National Development Vision 2050.
