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Tanzania is targeting to increase the area covered by detailed geophysical surveys from the current 16 per cent to 50 per cent by 2030, a move expected to improve mineral exploration and attract more investment into the sector.
The target was highlighted on Friday, August 28, 2026, when the Board of the Geological Survey of Tanzania (GST) met with the institution’s management in Dodoma to review its plans and strategies for the 2026/27 financial year.
The meeting, held at the Prof Abdulkarim Mruma Conference Hall at GST offices, also discussed the institution’s financial statements and measures to improve the implementation of its mandate.
GST Chief Executive Officer, Engineer Ally Samaje, said expanding geophysical surveys would help the country generate more accurate information on its mineral resources.
He said improved geological data would not only strengthen mineral exploration but also provide potential investors with reliable information on areas with mineral prospects.
“The institution has prepared plans to increase the area covered by detailed geophysical surveys from 16 per cent to 50 per cent by 2030,” Engineer Samaje said.
The initiative comes as the Government seeks to strengthen geological research and maximise the contribution of the mining sector to the national economy.
Chairperson of the GST Board, Ms Yokobeth Myumbilwa, said the Board and management had a responsibility to ensure the institution delivered measurable results in line with the country’s development priorities.
She urged Board members to provide frank advice and identify areas requiring improvement to enhance the institution’s efficiency.
Ms Myumbilwa said the approach was consistent with directives issued by Minister for Minerals Anthony Mavunde during the inauguration of the GST Board on August 27, when he called on members to be innovative and develop new ideas to improve the institution’s performance.
She said GST’s work was particularly important in supporting the implementation of Tanzania’s Development Vision 2050 and strengthening the mining sector’s contribution to economic growth.
The Board also called for greater efficiency in the management of financial resources and procurement.
Board member Dr Eva Shayo said implementation of GST programmes, particularly in finance and procurement, should be guided by quality, efficiency and value for money.
Prof Elisante Mshiu, another Board member, stressed the importance of ensuring that equipment purchased by GST is modern and appropriate for the institution’s research activities.
The expansion of geophysical surveys is expected to strengthen Tanzania’s understanding of its mineral potential, improve the quality of geological information available to investors and support more informed decision-making in the mining sector.