Tanzania, Russia broaden ties in mining sector through expanding geological exploration, technology transfer

MOSCOW: TANZANIA and Russia have moved to strengthen cooperation in the mining sector, with a focus on expanding geological exploration, technology transfer and capacity building to unlock untapped mineral potential.

The discussion was held in Moscow on June 5, 2026 during the official visit of President Samia Suluhu Hassan, where Minister for Minerals, Anthony Peter Mavunde, met Russian Deputy Minister of Natural Resources, Mining and Environment, Tetenkin Dmitry Dmitrievich.

Speaking during the meeting, Minister Mavunde said Tanzania’s mining sector continues to grow, but only 16 percent of the country has so far undergone detailed geological exploration, leaving vast opportunities for investment and discovery.

“Alongside the rapid growth of our mining sector, our country has only managed to conduct detailed exploration on about 16 percent of its land area. Expanding exploration coverage will significantly increase mineral data and attract more investors,” he said.

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He noted that geological exploration presents a major entry point for enhanced cooperation with Russia, citing the country’s advanced expertise in geoscience, modern laboratories and mineral research technologies.

Minister Mavunde also highlighted an existing Memorandum of Understanding between Tanzania’s Geological Survey of Tanzania (GST) and a Russian university, urging accelerated finalisation to enable full implementation and strengthen joint research initiatives.

Furthermore, he called for expanded capacity building for Tanzanian experts in geology and laboratory sciences, saying enhanced training and technology transfer would significantly boost the country’s ability to explore and develop its mineral resources sustainably.