China’s Shenghe Resources begins construction of heavy mineral sands plant in Pangani

TANGA: CHINESE company, Shenghe Resources, has commenced construction of a large-scale processing plant for heavy mineral sands in Tajiri, Pangani District, Tanga Region, where the company is implementing a major mineral mining project.

The development was announced by Shenghe Resources Chairman of the Board of Directors, Xie Bing, during a visit by Minister for Minerals Anthony Mavunde to the company’s operations to inspect various mineral value-addition activities being undertaken by the firm.

Speaking during the visit, Bing said the company has heavy mineral sands projects in Mozambique, South Africa and Madagascar, but has selected Tanzania as its mineral processing hub for Africa.

He said the company has now started construction of a Mineral Separation Plant in Pangani District, Tanga, which is expected to be completed within a short period.

Bing said raw materials from other African countries will be transported to Tanzania for processing and value addition, positioning the country as a regional centre for heavy mineral sands processing.

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He also commended the Tanzanian Government for creating a favourable investment environment, which he said had encouraged the company to invest in the country.

Speaking during the visit, Minister for Minerals Anthony Mavunde welcomed Shenghe Resources’ decision, saying it was in line with Tanzania’s mining policy and the Mining Act, which promote mineral beneficiation and value addition within the country.

Mavunde said the establishment of the processing plant would contribute to job creation, increased government revenues and the advancement of technology in mineral processing.

The Minister also directed Shenghe Resources to ensure that construction of the processing plant is completed within the agreed timeframe.