Tanzania Revokes Undeveloped Mining Licenses, Warns Claim Holders

Tanzania's Minister of Minerals, Anthony Mavunde, has initiated an operation to revoke mining licenses from holders who have failed to develop their claims, signaling a significant reform in the mining sector.

Mavunde announced that this crackdown, which has already begun in the Mwanza Region, will be implemented across the country. The objective is to free up land for miners who are genuinely ready to engage in extraction activities. He highlighted that many individuals have acquired licenses but have kept the areas idle, thereby hindering economic progress and blocking opportunities for others.

During the launch of license distribution to small-scale miners in Kwimba District, Mwanza, Mavunde stated that this practice deprives the government of revenue and prevents thousands of citizens, especially youth, women, and people with disabilities, from earning a livelihood through mining. He specifically mentioned that in Kwimba alone, 5,441 hectares of land had been held by a few individuals without development, blocking access for small-scale miners.

The minister warned that this is not an isolated issue and is prevalent in other parts of the country, necessitating nationwide action. He also cautioned small-scale miners against encroaching on legally held claims, as this creates difficulties during inspections and tracking compliance with license conditions. Mavunde also directed the National Mining Corporation (Stamico) to deploy a drilling machine to Kwimba District to support research and mining activities.