Govt seeks order in Kahama mining stand-off
DODOMA: THE government has moved to resolve a simmering dispute involving the Isunda Group (licence holders), farm owners and pit owners at Busulwagili village in Kahama District, Shinyanga Region, with the Minister for Minerals, Mr Anthony Mavunde, issuing firm directives to restore order.
Speaking in Dodoma yesterday during a meeting that brought together all parties, the minister directed the Isunda Group to immediately suspend all mining activities until a formal meeting report is submitted, clearly outlining agreed terms on the rights of pit owners to invest before any other investor is allowed, as provided under Regulation 18A of the Mining Rights Regulations.
Mr Mavunde stressed that the law requires licence holders who have engaged smallscale miners to honour their first right of investment before bringing in new investor.
“Licences are strictly for mining activities, not for leasing. Any violation of procedures will not be tolerated,” he stressed.
He further directed that licence holders and pit owners must enter into formal agreements before mining resumes, saying such arrangements are essential in preventing recurring conflicts in small-scale mining areas.
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The minister also cautioned the Isunda leadership against issuing misleading information that fuels tensions between small-scale miners and license holders, warning that the government will take action against disorderly conduct.
Additionally, he instructed the Tanzania Mining Commission not to sign any technical agreement unless satisfied that no dispute exists between licence owners and pit operators.
“We will deploy a team of experts to every pit to assess production levels, government royalties and ensure transparency and accountability,” he added.
Deputy Minister for Minerals, Dr Steven Kiruswa, underscored that lasting solutions will only be achieved through open dialogue anchored on law, fairness and protecting the interests of all stakeholders.
