On December 3, 2024, Uganda’s officials met Tanzanian mining experts in Dodoma to share best practices in managing artisanal and small-scale mining. The meeting, facilitated by UNDP, highlighted Tanzania’s successful practices and Uganda’s commitment to enhancing its mining regulations. Both nations aim to strengthen their mining sectors through collaboration, fostering regional development.
Tanzania has emerged as a model for managing artisanal and small-scale mining, catching the attention of neighboring Uganda. On December 3, 2024, officials from Uganda’s Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development met with Tanzanian mining experts in Dodoma to exchange insights on effective mining management. This gathering, organized by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) under the ACP-EU Development Minerals Programme, aimed to promote best practices in mining sector oversight.
Tanzania’s Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Minerals, Yahya Samamba, discussed the country’s achievements since gaining independence in 1961, including improvements in value addition and institutional frameworks. He highlighted the essential roles of entities such as the Geological Survey of Tanzania (GST) and the State Mining Corporation (Stamico) in facilitating mining operations and supporting small-scale miners. Samamba stated, “These institutions play critical roles in geological research, facilitating small-scale miners’ access to financing and promoting sustainable mining practices.”
Irene Bateebe, Uganda’s Minister of Energy and Mineral Development, praised Tanzania’s progress and expressed a commitment to adopt similar strategies in Uganda. She remarked on the necessity for enhanced regulatory frameworks and sustainability initiatives for small-scale miners. UNDP National Coordinator Godfrey Nyamrunda emphasized the importance of regional cooperation in leveraging Africa’s natural resources, noting that “this collaboration aligns with UNDP’s mission to empower communities and foster South-South Cooperation through shared learning.”
Tanzania’s Minister for Minerals, Anthony Mavunde, reiterated the nation’s dedication to efficient mining practices and strict regulatory enforcement to combat smuggling while encouraging local participation. Additionally, the meeting recognized Uganda’s advancement in developing new mining legislation to streamline existing regulations, further solidifying the country’s commitment to a stronger mining sector.
As Uganda heavily depends on artisanal and small-scale mining for construction and other sectors, this collaboration aims to create a sustainable foundation for both countries’ mineral industries, ultimately benefiting regional economic development.
In recent years, Tanzania has made significant improvements in managing its mining sector, particularly focusing on artisanal and small-scale mining operations. Such progress has drawn the attention of Uganda, which is now seeking to learn from Tanzania’s successful practices to bolster its own mining sector. This collaboration is facilitated by the UNDP, which aims to promote sustainable development within the mining industry across Africa and the Caribbean, specifically regarding neglected minerals such as industrial minerals and construction materials. Tanzania’s approach involves various institutions that play crucial roles in supporting small-scale miners, enhancing regulatory frameworks, and ensuring sustainable practices. Meanwhile, Uganda is advancing its mining legislation to strengthen its sector, making the exchange of expertise significant for fostering growth and development in both nations’ mining industries.
The collaborative efforts between Tanzania and Uganda signify a positive step towards enhancing the management and regulation of artisanal and small-scale mining. By sharing best practices and experiences, both nations aim to strengthen their mining sectors, ultimately contributing to regional development and sustainability. With guidance from Tanzanian experts, Uganda is poised to adopt similar strategies to improve its framework and support local miners. This initiative underscores the importance of regional partnerships in maximizing resource potential and fostering economic growth.
Original Source: www.thecitizen.co.tz
