Dar es Salaam. In the fiscal year 2023/2024, the Njombe Region made remarkable strides in mineral revenue collection, amassing Sh4.5 billion, which equates to 196 percent of its initial target of Sh2.3 billion.
This significant increase is attributed to the Mining Commission’s efforts to enhance inspections and implement strategic initiatives aimed at improving revenue collection from various mining activities, including royalties, inspection fees, license fees, and permit fees as outlined in the Mining Act.
Speaking on behalf of the Mining Resident Officer for Njombe Region, Geologist Abraham Nkya stated that coal mining emerged as the leading contributor to these revenues, generating Sh4.155 billion alone during the last fiscal year.
Njombe is rich in diverse mineral resources, including iron, manganese, and gold, presenting substantial investment opportunities.
Mr Nkya urged potential investors to explore opportunities in the Ludewa District, where extensive research indicates approximately 500 million tons of coal reserves, with 430 million tons specifically identified in Nkomang’ombe, signaling a need for further exploration.
Additionally, the government has taken steps to compensate 1,143 residents impacted by the coal mining project in Nkomang’ombe, Mchuchuma, and the iron project in Liganga.
A total of Sh10.2 billion has been disbursed as compensation and interest to 493 residents in the Liganga iron project and Sh5.2 billion to 650 residents in the Mchuchuma coal project.
This compensation underscores the government’s commitment to ensuring that local communities benefit from mining activities.
Moreover, on August 2, 2024, the National Development Corporation signed a contract with Fijian Hexingwang Industry from China for iron mining in Ludewa, adjacent to the Liganga iron project.
This partnership is expected to enhance mining operations and contribute positively to the region’s economy, with hopes that the Njombe Mining Office will facilitate further investments that yield beneficial outcomes for both the local community and the nation at large.
