The Government of Tanzania has issued Notices of Breach to 95 large and medium-scale mining companies for violating the terms and conditions of their mining licenses, as stipulated in the Mining Act.

Speaking on May 6, 2025, in Dar es Salaam, the Minister of Minerals, Anthony Mavunde, stated that the companies in question have failed to comply with license obligations and now have 30 days to respond, failing which their licenses will be revoked.

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"These notices were officially issued on April 14, 2025, and the deadline for response is May 13, 2025," he said.

"If a company has valid reasons, they must present them for review. If we are satisfied with the justification, we will lift the restrictions. However, if no sufficient response is provided, we will proceed to revoke their licenses in accordance with Section 63 of the Mining Act, which requires license holders to commence operations within 18 months of issuance."

 

Mavunde revealed that some companies have held licenses for over a decade without initiating any mining activities.

"Some companies obtained licenses as far back as 2011, and to this day, no mining has begun—not even a single shovel in the ground. That is unacceptable."

He further noted that only 7 out of the 95 licenses are backed by capital worth over TZS 15 trillion, yet they have remained inactive.

"We cannot be a country where mining licenses are issued just for speculation. These licenses are meant to stimulate growth in the mining sector—not to sit idle while investors delay projects under the excuse of ongoing negotiations with the government or other reasons."

The Minister clarified that mining licenses are issued with strict conditions and expectations.

"There is no condition in the license that states mining can only begin after completing negotiations with the government. That’s not part of the agreement. Once a license is granted, operations must begin within 18 months unless there is an officially approved reason through the Minerals Commission."

 

Those who have received the breach notices and wish to respond must also include a commitment letter outlining exactly when they plan to begin mining. If they fail to meet the timelines stated in their own letters, the legal process will take its course.

"As a country, we must make tough decisions. We cannot allow individuals to acquire licenses and then go looking for funding afterward. The law requires applicants to prove both financial and technical capability before being granted a license. Otherwise, it means the license was obtained based on false information."

"Anyone who fails to respond within the given timeframe should not expect any sympathy. Many have previously rushed to court, but in this case, the government has strictly followed all legal procedures required by law."

The Minister concluded by emphasizing the strategic importance of the mining sector to Tanzania’s economic development:

"Mining is one of the key sectors driving our economy forward. Active participation and responsible investment are essential to ensure that the country benefits from its natural resources."

 

 

Deputy Minister for Minerals Dr. Steven Kiruswa has called for the timely commencement of the Chilalo Graphite Mining Project in line with Tanzania's Mining Act. The call was made during a meeting with the newly appointed Chairman of Evolution Energy Minerals, Robin Birchall, to discuss the progress and future of the project, which is being executed through KUDU Graphite.

Evolution Energy Minerals, in partnership with the Tanzanian government, holds a 16% non-dilutable stake in KUDU Graphite, which owns the rights to the Chilalo graphite mining project located in Ruangwa District, Lindi Region.

The meeting, held on December 19 at the Ministry’s offices in Dar es Salaam, emphasized the government's expectations for strategic mining projects to adhere to agreed timelines and legal obligations.

“The President has improved the investment climate in Tanzania. Investors who are entrusted with mining licenses must ensure their projects are implemented as per agreements and the country’s laws to foster development for local communities and the nation at large,” said Dr. Kiruswa.

He further urged the company’s leadership to establish a comprehensive project implementation schedule and tasked the Ministry’s project ambassador, Engineer Neema Mwafumbira, with closely monitoring the project to ensure its adherence to the agreed development plan.

Commitment from Evolution Energy Minerals

Robin Birchall, Chairman of Evolution Energy Minerals, assured Dr. Kiruswa of the company’s dedication to expediting the project’s implementation to deliver the anticipated benefits to the nation.

“We acknowledge the delays caused by previous management shortcomings. Significant leadership changes have been made, including appointing a new CEO, CFO, and Chairman, to ensure effective project execution,” said Birchall,

He also highlighted the company’s commitment to building local capacity by training Tanzanians in critical and underrepresented fields, such as internationally recognized mineral resource estimation experts.

Ensuring Progress Through Collaboration

Dr. Kiruswa reiterated the government's commitment to creating a conducive environment for investors but emphasized the need for mutual accountability.

“Strategic projects granted mining licenses must start on time to align with Tanzania’s development goals. Close monitoring and timely reporting are essential,” he said.

The meeting was attended by other key stakeholders, including Dar es Salaam Resident Mining Officer Gabote Masanja, KUDU Graphite’s Resident Manager Dr. Heavenlight Kavishe, and Engineer Neema Mwafumbira, who serves as the Ministry’s project ambassador.

This initiative underscores Tanzania's focus on leveraging its vast mineral resources for socio-economic development and aligns with its Vision 2030 of transforming the mining sector into a driver of national prosperity.

 

Mirerani, Manyara – The Tanzanian government has reaffirmed its commitment to transforming the gemstone industry by holding regular gemstone auctions, a move expected to boost economic development and enhance the value of the country’s mineral wealth. 

Speaking during the ongoing gemstone auction in Mirerani, leaders from different sectors highlighted the auction's importance in fostering transparency, promoting the gemstone industry, and linking it to other key sectors such as tourism and manufacturing.

Enhancing the Value of Tanzanian Gemstones

The Minister for Minerals, Anthony Mavunde, emphasized the critical role of the auction in showcasing the economic potential of Tanzania's gemstones, particularly Tanzanite, a rare and valuable stone unique to the country.

“This auction serves as a platform to demonstrate the value of our gemstones and their economic opportunities,” said Mavunde. 

He noted that the auctions contribute significantly to connecting the mining sector with social and economic development initiatives while stimulating transparency and market competitiveness.

The minister also announced plans for the continuity of such auctions. “The government is committed to ensuring these auctions are held regularly here in Mirerani,” he stated, adding that unsold gemstones would be returned to their respective owners for future auctions, with additional provisions for handling stored gemstones through the Bank of Tanzania.

Mavunde further addressed the empowerment of small-scale miners, revealing plans to host another auction specifically for small-scale miners before the end of the month. He also urged regional authorities to allocate investment areas for mining activities, citing plans to establish a Tanzanite Smart City in Manyara, which will include a state-of-the-art conference center to boost international meetings and tourism.

Manyara: A Gemstone Hub

Manyara Regional Commissioner, Queen Cuthbert Sendiga, lauded the auction’s role in highlighting the region’s pride as the sole source of Tanzanite. 

She emphasized its contribution to government revenue and regional promotion.

“The gemstone auctions provide an opportunity to boost government revenue while showcasing the region’s wealth. Events like the Tanzanite Rally also serve as a platform to promote mining tourism and our unique Tanzanite heritage,” said Sendiga.

Boosting Market Transparency and Attracting Buyers

Msafiri Mbibo, the Deputy Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Minerals, pointed out that the reintroduction of domestic auctions enhances market competition and transparency, critical steps toward preparing for future international auctions to be hosted locally.

“This auction has attracted 195 participants, including 120 small traders, 59 large-scale buyers, 7 gemstone cutters, and 9 miners. The gemstones on auction today weigh a total of 184.06 kilograms, with an estimated value of TZS 3.1 billion,” Mbibo disclosed.

Industry Oversight and Long-Term Benefits

Janet Lekashingo, Chairperson of the Mining Commission, stressed the importance of auctions in improving gemstone trade transparency. She encouraged unsuccessful buyers not to lose hope as more opportunities would arise in subsequent auctions.

“We are selling a variety of gemstones today, including Tanzanite, sapphire, spinel, and tourmaline,” she noted, underscoring the diversity and richness of Tanzania’s mineral resources.

Recognition and Vision for Growth

Simanjiro MP, Christopher Ole Sendeka, praised the Ministry of Minerals for its steadfast efforts in fulfilling its promises. He also commended the Bank of Tanzania’s initiative to purchase gold, calling it a visionary step for the national economy.

“The mining sector aligns with our Vision 2030 by targeting the completion of 50% of a comprehensive airborne geophysical survey. This will significantly strengthen our economy,” Ole Sendeka remarked.

CCM Endorsement and Calls for Sustainability

The Manyara CCM Chairman, Peter Toima, expressed satisfaction with the sector’s progress, emphasizing the auctions’ role in improving the livelihoods of Mirerani residents and the region’s overall economy.

“These auctions must be sustained as they have the potential to transform lives and uplift the region,” said Toima.

Parliamentary Support for Mining Development

Representing the Parliamentary Committee on Energy and Minerals, Kilumbe Shaban Ng’enda advocated for increased budget allocations to the Ministry of Minerals to support research and sector development.

“This auction reflects the transparency and accountability of the mining sector. Our aim is to ensure the sector benefits both current and future generations,” Ng’enda affirmed.

Strategic Pathway to Global Recognition

As Tanzania leverages its gemstone wealth through innovative auctions and robust government policies, the sector is poised for substantial growth. These initiatives not only ensure sustainable resource management but also position Tanzania as a global hub for high-quality gemstones, fostering economic prosperity for the nation and its people.

The International Mining Investment Conference in Tanzania will officially open on November 19, 2024, with the President of the United Republic of Tanzania,  Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, presiding over the event. 

The conference will be attended by various stakeholders from both within and outside the country, including Ministers of Mining from other African nations, major investors, mining sector experts, ambassadors, and researchers. 

The closing ceremony will take place on November 21, 2024, led by the President of the Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar,  Dr. Hussein Ali Mwinyi.

The main aim of the conference is to strengthen the investment climate in Tanzania’s mining sector, attracting both local and international investors, and providing a platform to discuss the future of the mining industry. 

It will also offer participants an opportunity to learn about the government's new policies and strategies, discuss legal and economic issues related to mining, and witness new technologies that can bring greater value in mineral exploration and beneficiation.

According to Minister of Minerals, Hon. Antony Mavunde, speaking on November 14, 2024, in Dar es Salaam, the mining sector in Tanzania has continued to grow and play a significant role in the country's economy. 

"In the 2022/23 financial year, the sector contributed over 56% of the country's foreign exchange earnings from mineral exports, and 15% of domestic tax revenues, amounting to 2.1 trillion Tanzanian shillings. Our goal is for the mining sector to contribute 10% of the national GDP by 2025," said Mavunde.

The government has also introduced initiatives to support small-scale miners, including providing 10 additional drilling machines through the State Mining Corporation (STAMICO). Small-scale miners will now pay 10 million shillings for drilling services instead of the previous 25 million shillings.

Additionally, the government has strengthened the regulation of the mineral trade by establishing 43 mineral markets and 105 buying points, which has helped to collect minerals worth 4.7 trillion shillings through various taxes.

A major project to establish a metal smelting plant at the Buzwagi mine in Kahama-Shinyanga is set to cost 500 million USD. This plant will have the capacity to produce finished metal products, marking an important step in adding value to minerals before they are exported.

The mining sector continues to make a significant contribution to the country's economy through both large and small-scale miners. Small-scale mining now accounts for 40% of the government’s revenue, and the sector is a model for many countries in Southern Africa (SADC).

The global diamond market has been affected by the rise of laboratory-grown diamonds. Two months ago, Minister Mavunde visited the Mwadui Diamond Mine to assess the state of the diamond market. However, Tanzanian miners are continuing their operations despite these challenges.

This year’s conference theme is “Value Addition to Minerals for Economic and Social Development,” which aims to emphasize the importance of adding value to locally produced minerals before exporting them. This will help stimulate the establishment of industries that will benefit the country, neighboring regions, and the world as a whole.

The conference will also feature a Mining Gala, recognizing the outstanding contributions of stakeholders in the mining sector. In addition, there will be an exhibition showcasing gemstones, industrial minerals, and construction materials, highlighting the opportunities in the mining sector and the use of minerals in daily economic and social life.

This year’s conference will feature 57 speakers, with 20 from international countries and 37 local experts from the mining sector. The conference is expected to provide an important platform for Tanzania to strengthen its position as an investment hub in the mining industry.

 

Tanzania’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Energy, Dr. Doto Biteko, emphasized the long-standing relationship between Tanzania and Singapore, calling for both nations to explore the reasons behind their ties and increase trade cooperation. 

Dr. Biteko made these remarks on October 21, 2024, during his visit to Singapore, after holding talks with Singapore’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade and Industry, Gan Kim Yong.

"We must learn from this relationship, especially from Singapore, which has made significant strides in the energy sector. You now have the capacity to meet a high electricity demand of over 8 gigawatts, a significant amount compared to Tanzania's current capacity of approximately 3,000 megawatts. By 2030, we aim to reach 10,000 megawatts," Dr. Biteko stated.

He emphasized, "This plan cannot be realized without collaboration with partners and countries like Singapore. We hope to see this cooperation grow and bring benefits to both our people."

Dr. Biteko also praised Singapore's advancements in solar energy production and highlighted Tanzania's ongoing efforts in generating solar power. He pointed to current energy projects, including a major project that will generate 2,115 megawatts, and mentioned that feasibility studies are underway for various other power generation projects.

Additionally, Dr. Biteko extended an invitation to Singapore’s Deputy Prime Minister, Gan Kim Yong, to visit Tanzania. 

"On behalf of the government and President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, we would be delighted to host you in Tanzania. We believe there are many areas where we can collaborate," Dr. Biteko said.

In response, Gan Kim Yong affirmed Singapore's readiness to continue its partnership with Tanzania, noting that both countries share similar energy needs. 

"We are eager to strengthen our cooperation with Tanzania, particularly in the energy sector. While Singapore heavily relies on natural gas, we also utilize hydropower, solar, and wind energy. We are open to exchanging experiences and expertise with Tanzania," said Yong.

 

Las Vegas, Nevada – USA

Tanzania's Deputy Minister for Minerals, Dr. Steven Kiruswa, reiterated the government's commitment to working with companies from any country worldwide to develop the nation’s strategic minerals. 

He emphasized that Tanzania does not align itself with any single nation in these efforts but is open to partnerships with investors who comply with the country’s mining laws.

Dr. Kiruswa made these remarks on September 23, 2024, during a panel discussion on the importance of strategic minerals in the mining economy at the ongoing MinExpo 2024 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

“Tanzania will collaborate with companies from any country that invests in accordance with the laws governing the mining sector,” Dr. Kiruswa emphasized.

He further added that under President Dr. Samia Hassan's leadership, the government is focused on ensuring that minerals, including strategic minerals, are value-added within the country to benefit Tanzania from its natural resources. 

“Tanzania has created an enabling environment for investment and strong protections for investor capital,” he said.

Dr. Kiruswa highlighted several ongoing strategic mineral projects in the country, noting that 12 projects are ready for development into full-scale mines, including six focused on graphite.

He also used the platform to outline the government's strategies for advancing the development of strategic minerals, including comprehensive geophysical research. 

He noted that Tanzania is in the process of finalizing a Strategic Minerals Development Plan, which is currently undergoing stakeholder consultations.

Additionally, Dr. Kiruswa invited manufacturers of mining equipment and machinery from the U.S. and other countries participating in the expo to attend the International Mining Investment Conference, scheduled to take place from November 19-21, 2024, at the Julius Nyerere International Convention Centre in Dar es Salaam. 

He explained that attendees would gain in-depth knowledge of the investment opportunities available in Tanzania’s mining sector.

Dr. Kiruswa was accompanied by experts from the Mining Commission, the State Mining Corporation (STAMICO), and representatives from various Tanzanian mining and service companies.