THE Buzwagi Special Economic Zone (SEZ) is set to become a cornerstone for industrial transformation in Tanzania’s Lake Zone, attracting substantial local and international investments and creating opportunities for entrepreneurs and industrial stakeholders.
The closure of the Buzwagi Gold Mine in 2022 by Barrick Gold marked a pivotal moment for the Shinyanga Region, as the site transitioned from being a key mining hub to an industrial development zone.
The gold mine, which operated for 15 years and at its peak employed over 3,000 people, was the second-largest gold mine in Tanzania.
Barrick’s expertise in managing the closure has resulted in a well-planned transformation, leaving the site ready to drive sustainable economic activities.
Barrick’s Mine Closure Manager, Mr Zonnastral Mumbi, highlighted the company’s efforts to align the closure with international standards and create long-term benefits for the local community.
“A sustainable mining company’s role is not only to create value for stakeholders during the mining period but also to leave a positive legacy that will continue to serve the community long after mining operations end,” he said.
The Buzwagi SEZ is envisioned as a center of excellence for strategic metal extraction and resource processing, leveraging Tanzania’s rich mineral reserves.
In line with its mine closure objectives, Barrick Gold recently established a training academy at the former Buzwagi mine.
Barrick’s Chief Operating Officer for Africa and the Middle East, Mr Sebastiaan Bock, described the academy as a strategic initiative to equip frontline managers with leadership and operational skills.
“Specifically, the Barrick Academy will train more than 2,000 foremen, supervisors, and superintendents from the Africa and Middle East region over the next 24 months,” he stated.
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Shinyanga Regional Commissioner, Mr Anamringi Macha, underscored the significance of the Buzwagi SEZ during a recent site visit, calling it a game-changer for the Lake Zone’s economy.
“The establishment of the Buzwagi Special Economic Zone will mark a turning point, creating industries that add value to minerals and support the nation’s mining activities,” Mr Macha said.
He further noted that the SEZ will act as a catalyst for various sectors, including agriculture, trade, construction, transportation, tourism, finance, health and education.
The SEZ aligns with Tanzania’s Third National Five-Year Development Plan (FYDP III), which emphasises industrial production, economic competitiveness and trade stimulation.
With the government’s commitment to fostering an enabling environment for investments, the Buzwagi SEZ is expected to attract both local and global businesses, driving economic growth, job creation and regional prosperity.
Modern infrastructure development is a key driver of the Buzwagi SEZ’s potential. Significant upgrades, such as the new passenger terminal at the Buzwagi airstrip, have enhanced transportation and trade logistics. The terminal’s capacity has increased from handling 25 passengers to over 200, facilitating seamless movement of goods and personnel.
This improved connectivity is crucial for attracting manufacturers, service providers and industries eager to capitalise on the Lake Zone’s strategic position. Traditionally reliant on agriculture and mining, the Lake Zone is set to benefit from the SEZ’s focus on industrial diversification.
By fostering activities such as manufacturing, processing and technology, the zone aims to reduce dependency on raw material exports while promoting value-added products.
This shift is expected to stimulate local businesses, create new opportunities for entrepreneurs and support sectors like construction, energy and manufacturing. The resulting economic resilience will benefit both the local population and regional stakeholders.
The transformation of the Buzwagi site into a bustling SEZ is projected to generate thousands of jobs across diverse sectors. Beyond construction and manufacturing, employment opportunities will also arise in transportation, logistics, retail and services.
These developments will not only alleviate unemployment but also contribute to improving livelihoods in the Lake Zone region, fostering inclusive economic growth.
Strategically located in the heart of the Lake Zone and near neighboring countries such as Uganda, Kenya and Rwanda, the Buzwagi SEZ is positioned to become a gateway for cross-border trade and investment.
The zone’s economic ripple effects are expected to extend beyond Tanzania, encouraging infrastructure development and regional collaboration. By aligning with Tanzania’s broader industrialisation goals, the Buzwagi SEZ will contribute to East African economic integration and enhance Tanzania’s role in the regional economy.
The Buzwagi SEZ represents a bold step forward in Tanzania’s efforts to achieve sustainable industrial growth and economic diversification.
With modern infrastructure, a focus on value addition, and alignment with national development plans, the zone is poised to transform the Lake Zone into a thriving industrial hub while strengthening regional and international ties
