Tanzania opens 10 mineral drilling rigs, 12.4bn/-survey equipment  

DODOMA: PRIME Minister Kassim Majaliwa has officially launched ten mineral drilling rigs and geological survey equipment worth 12.41bn/- aimed at supporting small-scale miners in Tanzania.

The launch took place at the Jakaya Kikwete Convention Centre in Dodoma and forms part of the government’s ongoing efforts to reduce challenges faced by small-scale miners, particularly the lack of geological data.

Speaking at the event, the Prime Minister said this initiative is a continuation of President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s commitment to strengthening the mining sector and empowering small-scale miners to increase production and contribute significantly to the national economy. “In October 2023, President Samia launched five drilling rigs for small-scale miners. Due to overwhelming demand and positive response, she directed the Ministry of Minerals to procure additional rigs,” Majaliwa said.

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Majaliwa explained that the initial five rigs have already served 16 miners across various regions, with a total of 3,450.37 meters drilled. He noted that this success has encouraged the government to increase its investment in such technologies to reach more miners nationwide.

The Prime Minister emphasized that expanding the availability of drilling equipment will lead to major reforms in the mining sector. It will enable miners to access accurate geological data, make better business decisions, improve operational safety, and ultimately increase productivity and national revenue.

In a related move, Majaliwa urged small-scale miners to continue selling their minerals through domestic markets and gold refining facilities within the country. He stressed that doing so will stimulate economic circulation and curb mineral smuggling. “We have 43 mineral markets and 109 buying centers across the country. If you are a true patriot, ensure your minerals are sold within Tanzania,” he stated.

Meanwhile, Minister of Minerals Anthony Mavunde revealed that in the current financial year, the mining sector has contributed approximately 1.01tri/- to the government’s main revenue fund. He added that the Bank of Tanzania currently holds 5.7 tonnes of gold reserves, placing Tanzania among the top ten African countries with the highest gold reserves.

Minister Mavunde further highlighted that during President Samia’s four years in office, the mining sector has undergone a major transformation. Its contribution to the national GDP has increased from 6.7 percent to 10.1 percent a significant leap toward meeting the government’s target.

John Bina, President of the Federation of Miners Associations of Tanzania (FEMATA), expressed his gratitude to the Sixth Phase Government for its dedicated support of the mining sector, especially its empowerment of small-scale miners. “Mining is both a science and a business. With these improvements, Tanzanians are seizing new opportunities in the sector. We small-scale miners stand with our government, it has truly honored us,” said Bina.