Mavunde orders close supervision of 14bn/- mineral lab project

DODOMA: MINISTER for Minerals, Anthony Mavunde has directed the Geological Survey of Tanzania (GST) to ensure close supervision of the 14bn/- modern mineral laboratory project at Kizota area to guarantee timely completion and compliance with required standards.

Mr Mavunde issued the directive during an inspection of the project’s progress, saying the investment is part of the government’s efforts to strengthen mineral testing services and reduce reliance on foreign laboratories by miners and mineral traders.

He said the laboratory will provide internationally accredited testing services, positioning Tanzania as a regional hub for mineral analysis in Sub-Saharan Africa while enabling local and international stakeholders to access reliable laboratory services within the country.

“We want to provide services that are of high quality, competitive and trusted in today’s market. This goes hand in hand with modern infrastructure, state-of-the-art equipment and highly skilled professionals,” Mr Mavunde said.

He said the government will continue investing in modern equipment and strengthening the capacity of Tanzanian experts to improve the quality and reliability of mineral testing services.

Meanwhile, GST Chief Executive Officer, Engineer Ally Samaje said construction is progressing in phases, with one section reaching 20 per cent completion and another 13.5 per cent.

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He said the project is scheduled for completion in September 2027 in line with the construction contract.

According to Eng Samaje, the laboratory will significantly expand the country’s mineral testing capacity by handling a wider range of mineral samples from Tanzania and neighbouring countries, while providing faster and more reliable analytical services to the mining industry.

He said the facility is expected to enhance value addition in the mining sector, strengthen investor confidence and reduce the time and costs incurred by miners and mineral traders who currently depend on laboratories outside the country.

Eng Samaje said GST will continue implementing strategic initiatives aimed at improving geological research and laboratory services to support the sustainable development of the mining sector and contribute to national economic growth.