Construction of Large Graphite Processing Plant Begins in Simanjiro

Permanent Minerals Ltd, based in Kandaskira Village, Simanjiro District, is advancing with the construction of a large graphite processing plant that is expected to significantly boost economic opportunities for the people of Simanjiro.

Briefing on the development, one of the plant’s owners, God Mwanga, stated that upon completion, the plant will have the capacity to process 108,000 tons of graphite annually and will create 300 direct jobs. The Simanjiro District Council is also anticipated to increase its revenue through this investment.

During the visit, Minister of Minerals, Anthony Mavunde, remarked, “President Dr. Samia instructed us to add value to minerals within the country, and we are now witnessing investors, especially local ones, responding to this call.”

He highlighted that Tanzania is rich in graphite resources in various areas, including Mirerani and Simanjiro. He emphasized that the Ministry will continue to intensify research efforts to attract significant investment in this sector. Despite Tanzanite being the more famous mineral in the region, the global demand for graphite is substantial, and he believes there will be considerable investment in both mining and processing of these minerals.

Mavunde added, “Currently, Tanzania is the third-largest producer of graphite in Africa, after Madagascar and Mozambique. We believe that with all 10 medium and large-scale graphite mining licenses operational, our country will become a leading graphite producer in Africa.”

In his remarks, Member of Parliament for Simanjiro, Christopher Ole Sendeka, praised the substantial investment in the plant and requested that the plant prioritize employment for local community members and ensure that the community benefits from Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives.

Welcoming the official guest, Simanjiro District Commissioner, Fakhi Lulandala, assured the investors of government support and called on more investors to explore opportunities in the district, which is rich in various mineral resources.