Tanzania’s small-scale miners see benefits of reliable power in boosting their sector

GEITA: SMALL-SCALE miners in Nyang’hwale District have praised the government’s continued investment in electricity infrastructure, saying the move is significantly reducing production costs and boosting productivity in the mining sector.

The miners made the remarks during the launching of a 500 KVA electricity project at the Igalula small-scale mining site by the Minister for Minerals Anthony Mavunde where the project costs more than 426m/-.

The project  is part of the government’s broader efforts to improve energy infrastructure in mining areas.

Speaking at the event, Minister Mavunde said the government is creating a more conducive environment for investment and mineral production by extending electricity to small and medium-scale mining operations across the country.

Elaborating, the minister stated that the government has so far invested more than 7bn/- in electrifying mining areas, enabling miners to reduce reliance on diesel-powered equipment, lower operating costs and improve efficiency.

“The government’s investment in electricity infrastructure is transforming the mining sector by increasing productivity while reducing the cost of production for small-scale miners,” he said.

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During his tour of Nyang’hwale District, Mr Mavunde also inspected the Kakola Village clean and safe water project, which is expected to benefit more than 24,800 residents.

According to the minister, the project reflects President Samia’s commitment to expanding access to clean water, particularly for women who have traditionally travelled long distances in search of the vital resource.

“The President’s promise to relieve women of the burden of carrying water over long distances is being fulfilled through projects such as this, which will improve public health, livelihoods and economic activities,” he said.

The minister also inaugurated Imara Baruti Primary School, constructed to address the challenge of pupils walking nearly four kilometres to attend Shabaka Primary School.

He said the new school aligns with the ruling CCM Election Manifesto, which prioritises building schools closer to communities to improve access to quality education.

Mr Mavunde said the government’s continued investment in mining, water, education and other social services demonstrates its commitment to translating development promises into tangible improvements for Tanzanians.

Geita Regional Commissioner Martin Shigella commended the minister for inspecting and launching development projects in the region, saying the visits have accelerated implementation and strengthened monitoring of projects that directly benefit wananchi.

He added that sustained investment in mining, education, water and energy infrastructure is reinforcing Geita’s position as one of Tanzania’s leading mineral-producing regions while driving broader socio-economic development.