TEITI pledges to work closely with mining firms to enhance accountability in the extractive sector

GEITA: THE  Chairperson of the Tanzania Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (TEITI) Committee, Wilson Masilingi, has conducted a visit to the Geita Gold Mine to observe the progress achieved by the mine since its establishment.

During the visit, it was noted that the mine has continued to operate in compliance with the country’s laws, regulations, and established guidelines, including the conditions stipulated in the mining license issued for mineral extraction in Tanzania.

The visit also provided an opportunity for Masilingi, who was accompanied by his management team, to formally introduce himself to the mine’s management and strengthen working relations following his recent appointment by President Samia Suluhu Hassan to lead the institution, which plays a key role in the development of Tanzania’s extractive sector.

It was further explained that Geita Gold Mine has been allocating funds for the implementation of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) projects in local government authorities within the Geita Region, as part of its contribution to the development of communities surrounding the mine.

In addition, it was highlighted that the mine is currently operated largely by Tanzanians, with a significantly higher number of local employees compared to the early years of its operations.

On her part, TEITI Executive Secretary Mariam Mgaya thanked the management of Geita Gold Mine for continuing to cooperate with TEITI in implementing the requirements of the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI) as well as the TEITI Act of 2015, which aims to promote transparency and accountability in the extractive sector.

She emphasized the importance of maintaining this cooperation in order to further enhance transparency and accountability in the management of the country’s mineral, oil, and natural gas resources.

ALSO READ: Tanzania ranks 4th in Africa for mining investment

Speaking during the visit, Mr Masilingi expressed gratitude to the Geita Gold Mine for the warm reception he received, noting that it reflects strong prospects for continued collaboration in the future.

“I will work closely with all TEITI stakeholders to continue advancing transparency and accountability in the extractive sector in the country,” he said.

Meanwhile, Geita Gold Mine Manager Ashraf Suryaningrat pledged continued cooperation with TEITI in achieving the goal of strengthening transparency and accountability, noting that the mine remains one of the key stakeholders in implementing the initiative.