President Samia Suluhu Hassan unveils a bold five-year plan to revolutionize Tanzania's mineral sector, aiming to boost transparency, local value, and small-scale miner support. Her address at the 13th Parliament opening in Dodoma on November 14, 2025, emphasizes the sector's untapped potential for national development. Only 16% of Tanzania's mineral-rich land has been surveyed, and the government aims to ensure these resources drive economic growth and benefit citizens. The sector's contribution to the economy has grown from 6.8% in 2020 to 10.1% in 2024, but deeper reforms and governance are needed. A key focus is the 'National Strategy for Critical Minerals' by 2030, identifying essential minerals for global industries. President Hassan aims to eliminate speculation with a nationwide mining license review, targeting dormant exploration areas. Small-scale miners, the backbone of Tanzania's mining, will receive expanded support, including special mining areas, fast-tracked licensing, and access to capital and equipment. The government will also strengthen formal mineral markets and complete the 'Tanzanite Exchange Centre' for increased transparency and value. A transformative commitment is ending raw ore exports by 2030, establishing a multi-purpose mineral refinery to boost domestic processing, industrialization, and revenue. A 'Minerals Sovereign Wealth Fund' will safeguard mineral earnings for future generations. With global demand rising, President Hassan's reforms position Tanzania as a competitive, transparent, and value-driven mining leader in East and Central Africa.
