Ruvuma. President Samia Suluhu Hassan has officially launched a pilot Uranium Processing Plant operated by Mantra Tanzania Limited July 30, 2025 in Namtumbo District, Ruvuma Region
Speaking at the project site near the Mkuju River in southern Tanzania—an area rich in uranium deposits—the President highlighted the plant’s strategic importance as it is expected to operate for 20 years, contributing significantly to the country’s economy and energy resources.
Mantra Tanzania, the company behind the project, is a subsidiary of Uranium One Group, which is owned by Russia’s State Atomic Energy Corporation, ROSATOM. The Government of Tanzania holds a 20% ownership stake in the venture.
President Samia revealed that the investment is projected to reach USD 1.2 billion, and the economic benefits to Tanzania will include 750 permanent jobs, USD 373 million in royalties, USD 26 million in tree tax, USD 15.7 million in withholding tax, USD 1.01 billion in corporate tax, USD 20.8 million in license fees, and USD 40 million in government dividends from its equity stake annually.
In addition to these economic gains, President Samia instructed that the project must strictly adhere to Tanzania’s 2010 Mining Act (Cap. 123), particularly concerning local content and corporate social responsibility (CSR).
“Priority for jobs must be given to Tanzanians, especially residents of nearby villages for roles that do not require advanced skills. Furthermore, our mining laws and policies offer Tanzanians opportunities to participate in various mining services, including supply, contracting, and consultancy,” she said.
The President assured the public that the project would comply with both national and international legal standards. She called on all relevant government agencies to ensure that environmental protection is prioritized, noting that Tanzania could learn from countries like Namibia, which has a long history of uranium mining.
Russia’s Ambassador to Tanzania, Andrey Avetisyan, described the launch of the pilot plant as a sign of deepening cooperation between Tanzania and Russia, particularly in the sectors of energy, infrastructure, and modern technology.
“This move positions Tanzania as a global strategic partner in the renewable energy sector,” said Ambassador Avetisyan.
