OSHA explores safety measures for workers engaged in gold, graphite mines

LINDI: THE Tanzanian government has pledged to improve workplace safety in the mining sector, ordering closer inspections after workers at a newly operational graphite mine raised concerns over protective equipment and working conditions.

Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office (Labour, Employment and Industrial Relations), Deus Sangu made the statement during a tour at the Lindi Graphite Technologies Ltd mine and Elianje Genesis Ltd (Namungo) gold mine in Ruangwa District where he also inspected compliance with occupational safety and health laws.

Speaking at the site, the minister stated that the government remains committed to ensuring the safety and health of Tanzanians employed in gold and graphite mines in Lindi Region while directing the Occupational Safety and Health Authority (OSHA) to intensify safety education for mine owners and workers and ensure strict enforcement of workplace safety regulations.

“The priority is to ensure miners work in safe and dignified conditions so they can contribute effectively to the national economy while safeguarding their health,” the minister said.

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However, Mr Sangu commended OSHA for its continued oversight of occupational safety, stressing that workers should benefit from the income generated by the mining sector while remaining healthy.

Additionally, he urged the private sector to support the implementation of Tanzania’s Development Vision 2050, saying the government expects the sector to contribute about 70 per cent of the country’s Gross Domestic Product while creating more jobs for Tanzanians.

During the visit, workers at Lindi Graphite Technologies, represented by Benard Denis, complained of inadequate personal protective equipment and being assigned duties different from those stipulated in their employment contracts.

In response, the minister instructed the mine’s management to address the concerns immediately and ordered OSHA to conduct regular inspections, noting that the graphite processing plant only began commercial production a month ago.

Lindi Graphite Technologies Human Resources Officer, Clement Mvuma, said the company has employed 230 Tanzanians and 15 expatriates and that the mine has started producing graphite, with output reaching about 2,000 tonnes and daily production averaging between 70 and 80 tonnes.