Tanzania seeks WGC assistance in adding value to its gold reserve

DAR ES SALAAM: THE Ministry of Minerals has held strategic talks with the World Gold Council (WGC) aimed at discussing how the council can support Tanzania in attracting more investment, particularly in the area of value addition to minerals produced in the country.

The discussions were led by the Minister of State in the President’s Office for Planning and Investment, Prof Kitila Mkumbo, in collaboration with sectoral ministers. The delegation met with the Chief Executive Officer of WGC, David Tait.

During the meeting, the government reaffirmed its position against the export of raw gold, stating that the strategy is intended to attract investment in local gold refining and manufacturing industries. The move aims to increase employment opportunities, boost domestic revenues, and enhance the mining sector’s contribution to the national economy.

Both sides also held in-depth discussions on strategies to further develop the gold sector to ensure it contributes more significantly to national development. Priority was placed on formalizing and empowering small-scale miners, who account for approximately 40 percent of the country’s gold production. The Government outlined plans to support these miners in improving productivity while adhering to safety standards, environmental protection, and modern operational practices.

Additionally, the WGC expressed its interest in Tanzania’s mining sector management framework and selected the country for a special partnership to advance the gold sector. Through this collaboration, the council will help build capacity, provide knowledge, and facilitate access to technology for small-scale miners, with the goal of positioning Tanzania as a hub and model for gold sector development in Africa.

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As Tanzania ranks among the top five gold-producing countries in Africa, the WGC reiterated its readiness to work with the Government to improve the investment climate and uplift small-scale miners. Despite their significant contribution, these miners continue to face challenges, including inadequate equipment, limited access to geological data, and difficulties in obtaining capital financing.

Other ministers who participated in the discussions included the Minister for Minerals, Anthony Mavunde; the Minister of State in the President’s Office for Youth Development, Joel Nanauka; and the Minister for Community Development, Gender, Women and Special Groups, Dorothy Gwajima.