Mavunde launches first 30bn/- Nickel, Copper plant project

DODOMA: MINISTER for Minerals, Anthony Mavunde, today laid the foundation stone for Tanzania’s maiden Nickel and Copper Refining and Processing Plant, valued at over USD 15 million (about 30bn/-), at Zamahero Village in Bahi District, Dodoma Region, a project aimed at adding value to the country’s metallic minerals.

The landmark plant, being built by Zhongzhou Mining Co. Ltd, will require more than 280,000 tonnes of raw materials annually and is expected to create 300 direct jobs and several indirect employment opportunities.

Mr Mavunde said the project fulfils President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s directive that minerals must be processed locally to add value before export.

“Today we have taken a huge step forward in transforming Tanzania from an exporter of raw minerals into a producer of high-value mineral products for the global technology market,” he said.

The Minister noted that the plant will also bring significant social and economic benefits to the local community, including improved schools, health services and other amenities.

According to him, Bahi District Council will boost revenues through levies while the government will collect more taxes, strengthening the national economy.

“This investment will also enable technology transfer in modern mineral refining,” he added.

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Currently, Tanzania has eight gold refining plants producing up to 99.99 per cent pure gold, while five new processing plants for nickel and copper are under construction in Dodoma Region alone.

The Minister commended Zhongzhou Mining Co. Ltd Director, Mr Lee Zhong Liang, for choosing to invest in Dodoma and assured that the government will continue supporting investors committed to developing the mining sector.

On his part, the Mining Commissioner, Mr AbdulRahman Mwanga, described the project as a milestone.

He applauded the Minister’s efforts in addressing sectoral challenges, which paved the way for the establishment of the plant.

“This will be the first-ever plant for nickel value addition in Tanzania. When minerals are refined locally, they create jobs, increase national income, and stimulate the economy. We will continue to provide full support to ensure sustainable markets and more such factories in the future,” he said.

Zhongzhou Mining Director, Mr Lee Zhong Liang, pledged to work closely with the government and surrounding communities to ensure sustainable operations.

Meanwhile, Chairperson of Tanzania Base Metals Association (TBMA), Mr Thobias Kente, called on the government to intensify surveys in nickel and copper-rich areas such as Haneti, Mpwapwa and southern regions to ensure steady supply of raw materials to the plant.

He also urged small-scale miners to prepare to feed the factory, which is expected to start operations between October and November this year.

“This factory answers our long-standing call. Miners are now determined to raise production and guarantee supply to support its operations,” Mr Kente said.