Tanzanian orders suspension of mining activities at a village in Chato

CHATO: THE Tanzanian government has ordered an immediate suspension of mining activities at Kanyindo area in Chato District, Geita Region, to enforce compliance with laws governing land and mineral rights.

Minister for Minerals, Anthony Mavunde, issued the directive on May 3, 2026, while resolving a dispute between Bagogogo Mining Company and local landowners.

The minister stated that the decision aims to ensure adherence to legal provisions, stressing that land ownership and mineral rights are distinct under the law while citing the Mining Act, Cap 123, which prohibits licence holders from commencing operations without reaching an agreement with landowners.

Elaborating, he said that where consent is unreasonably withheld, the law empowers the minister to make a determination, but emphasised that due process must be followed.

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“The government is committed to enforcing laws, regulations and procedures in the mining sector to minimise unnecessary conflicts, and with this there is no legal requirement for landowners to receive shares in mining ventures unless agreed upon by the parties involved,” he said.

Additionally, he said that under land laws, minerals and petroleum resources are not included in land ownership, and all underground minerals remain public property.

Furthermore, the minister directed both the landowners and the company to continue engagement through the Chato District Commissioner’s office to facilitate valuation processes and reach an amicable resolution in line with legal requirements.

He also instructed the company to halt all mining operations until compensation procedures for affected parties are fully completed.

The dispute resolution meeting brought together key stakeholders, including Geita Regional Commissioner Martin Shigella, the Chato District Commissioner, regional administrative officials, the area Member of Parliament, as well as experts from the ministries responsible for lands and minerals, the Mining Commission, and the regional security committee.