Deputy Minister of Minerals, Dr Steven Kiruswa, has urged small-scale miners across Tanzania to familiarise themselves thoroughly with the Mining Act, Chapter 123, and its accompanying regulations to reduce recurrent conflicts at mining sites that hinder sector growth.
During a visit to Ikungi District in Singida Region, the Deputy Minister inspected mining and mineral-processing operations in Matongo and Mang’onyi Wards. He addressed ongoing disputes in these areas, emphasising that ignorance of the law often causes friction.
Tanzania’s Mining Act—its main legal framework—governs all phases of mining, including prospecting, mining operations, mineral processing, trading, and the management of mining rights such as licensing, renewals, and terminations.
Dr Kiruswa stated that research shows many miners either lack licences or operate without understanding the legal basis for their work. This lack of knowledge fuels disagreements and slows sector development. To remedy this, he directed the Singida Resident Mines Office to organise continuous legal education programmes aimed at small-scale miners.
He also highlighted the importance of understanding linked frameworks such as Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and the Local Content Plan. Knowing these, he explained, helps miners recognise their duty to invest in community welfare and local economic growth.
On-site, Dr Kiruswa acknowledged pressing local challenges, including poor roads, unreliable electricity, and limited clean water access in Matongo Ward. He assured residents that the government would prioritise these infrastructure improvements under the 2025/2026 national budget, working to create a more enabling environment for miners.
Ikungi District Commissioner Thomas Apson praised the government’s efforts and added that the district has made significant progress in resolving common disputes over land, mining licenses, and excavation zones in various wards. Commissioner Apson also applauded the Ministry of Minerals for its systemic reforms and fostering collaboration across the mining value chain, noting visible improvements in regional economic outcomes.
Observers say this push for legal literacy and infrastructure support is key to sustaining Tanzania’s small-scale mining sector. By decreasing conflicts and equipping miners with practical knowledge of laws and regulations, the government hopes to drive higher productivity, reduce operational disruptions, and attract safer, more responsible investment.
As Tanzania moves towards a more inclusive and well-governed mining sector, officials believe community engagement and miner education will be pivotal in ensuring long-term social and economic gains.
