New strategy to boost mineral processing
DODOMA: THE government has completed the formulation of the Mineral Value Addition Strategy aimed at transforming the mining sector.
The strategy is designed to shift the sector from exporting raw minerals to exporting processed and value-added mineral products within the country.
Minister for Minerals, Anthony Mavunde, informed the lawmakers on Monday while presenting the ministry’s 174.9bn/- budget estimates for 2026/2027 financial year.
“The implementation of this strategy will increase the value of our minerals and promote the growth of industries that will create jobs, contribute to GDP, enhance innovation and build skills,” he said.
He added that it will also improve the competitiveness of mineral-based products in both local and international markets through a strong value addition chain.
Mr Mavunde further said the ministry continues to oversee value addition activities through six gold refining plants located in Dodoma (1), Shinyanga (1), Geita (2), Dar es Salaam (1) and Mwanza (1).
He added that the government is also promoting the establishment of smelting industries for copper, nickel, tin and salt in Dodoma, Shinyanga, Kagera, Mbeya, Lindi and Coast regions.
Mr Mavunde said the ministry is also working with owners of gold refineries to secure London Bullion Market Association (LBMA) certification to enable access to international markets.
He further said efforts are underway to strengthen value addition in gemstones and precious metals, including construction of an eightstorey building at the Tanzania Gemological Centre (TGC) to enhance training capacity.
He said construction of the building has reached the basement stage.
The Minister said his docket through TGC is in the process of acquiring two plots measuring 7,318 square metres located opposite the centre for its expansion.
