Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa has underscored the government’s commitment to promoting mineral value addition as a core strategy for sustainable industrial development and local job creation.
Speaking during a high-level mining sector conference in Dar es Salaam today, Majaliwa urged both mining companies and policymakers to prioritize the processing of minerals within Tanzania rather than exporting raw ores. “Our mineral wealth must benefit Tanzanians directly,” he stated, calling for stricter enforcement of regulations requiring local refining of minerals such as gold, tanzanite, and industrial minerals.
Majaliwa highlighted the success of emerging pilot projects in gold refineries and mineral processing plants that have begun creating skilled employment and stimulating downstream industries. He added that the government plans to introduce incentives—including tax breaks and access to affordable finance—to encourage further investment in smelters and milling facilities.
“By supporting local beneficiation, we can foster value chains that link mining with manufacturing sectors like jewellery, electronics, and construction,” he said. “This is the path to economic transformation and wealth retention.”
The Prime Minister also announced the establishment of a technical working group to review existing regulations and recommend updates that will streamline licensing, ensure adherence to high environmental standards, and facilitate partnerships between international investors and domestic firms.
Majaliwa called on stakeholders—mining companies, international buyers, and financial institutions—to collaborate in developing mineral parks, refining hubs, and related infrastructure. “We must lay the foundations for a competitive mineral industry that empowers communities, diversifies our economy, and builds national resilience,” he said.
Mining associations welcomed the statement, noting that value addition promises more stable revenues, better wages, and skills transfer. However, they urged swift implementation of the promised incentives and the timely rollout of processing facilities to ensure the benefits reach communities as intended.
As Tanzania puts long-standing mineral policies into action, Majaliwa’s address marks a renewed push to shift the country from raw-material exporter to a regional beneficiation leader—creating more local jobs and capturing greater value from its rich natural resources.
