Experts undergo training on tailings, water dam safety
MWANZA: THE Ministry of Water, in collaboration with the Tanzania Chamber of Mines (TCM) and City Engineering Company, has begun offering specialised training for experts from mining companies to enhance emergency preparedness and response related to tailings and water dams.
The three-day training, which started yesterday in Mwanza Region, is conducted alongside the 2025 Annual Dam Safety Conference. The initiative aims to equip local professionals with critical skills to mitigate disaster risks, particularly in communities located near dams.
Speaking at a press briefing in Dodoma, Acting Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Water, Dr Diana Kimario, emphasised the importance of the training and the conference in strengthening dam safety protocols and reducing potential hazards.
“While dams are essential in supporting the country’s economic activities and managing tailing storage facilities from mineral processing, their mismanagement can lead to serious environmental damage, destruction of property, contamination of water sources and even loss of life,” said Dr Kimario.
This marks the third edition of the Annual Dam Safety Conference in Tanzania. The 2025 event is being held under the theme: “Emergency Preparedness and Response for Tailings and Water Dams.”
Dr George Lugomola, Director of Water Resources, noted that the conference draws nearly 300 participants, including dam operators, environmental specialists, engineers and government regulators from across the country.
“We believe this gathering will serve as a platform for knowledge sharing, policy development and practical solutions in dam safety and management,” he said during the briefing.
Engineer Benjamin Mchwampaka, Executive Secretary of the Tanzania Chamber of Mines, expressed appreciation for the government’s continued collaboration on dam safety initiatives.
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“We are glad to be part of these initiative that not only benefits the mining sector but also helps protect Tanzanian communities and the environment,” he stated.
According to the Chief Executive Officer of City Engineering Company Limited, Anael Macha, the event highlights Tanzania’s growing commitment to sustainable infrastructure and disaster resilience, particularly in regions where mining activities and water resource management intersect.
