Minister of Minerals, Anthony Mavunde, has announced a special operation targeting small-scale mining license holders who enter into informal agreements with foreign nationals and allow them to work under their licenses.
Speaking to the press on July 28, 2024, in Dodoma, Mavunde stated that small-scale mining licenses are exclusively issued to Tanzanians per Section 8(2) of the Mining Act, Chapter 123.
“It is prohibited for license holders to bring in foreigners without formal contracts and permits as required by law. Strict actions will be taken. We will conduct a special operation through RMOs (Regional Mining Officers), and if this issue is occurring in your region to the extent that the Minister or Deputy Minister has to intervene, you will be held accountable,” emphasized Minister Mavunde.
Section 8(3) of the Mining Act, Chapter 123, clarifies that a small-scale mining license holder can only enter into an agreement with a foreign national for technical assistance not available domestically, and such agreements must be approved by the Mining Commission.
Mavunde highlighted that significant negative impacts result from not adhering to Section 8(3), including small-scale miners losing jobs, their invested capital, and developing resentment towards the government.
Additionally, Mavunde condemned fraudulent activities in the mining business and the smuggling of minerals by a few individuals, which hinder the government’s goals.
“The Ministry will continue to take strict measures against all those involved in mineral smuggling. There are untrustworthy regional officials aiding revenue losses. I will provide the Secretary-General with their names for immediate action; we cannot tolerate this,” he said.
These statements come amidst complaints from various mining areas about Chinese nationals purchasing mines without proper procedures, causing various negative effects on the local small-scale miners and the communities relying on these mines.
