Dar es Salaam. Model Centers for Excellence in areas of Lwamgasa (Geita) and Katente (Bukombe) are transforming the small-scale mining industry by offering vital training in effective mining and mineral processing techniques.
These centers are essential for facilitating knowledge transfer and equipping miners with the skills needed to improve their operations.
Beneficiaries of these centers have voiced their appreciation for the government’s initiatives aimed at enhancing conditions for small-scale miners.
The government’s commitment to promoting modern technology has notably improved efficiency and production capacities in artisanal mining, fostering sustainable development in the sector.
The impact of these training centers is illustrated through the experiences of miners like Fortunatus Luhemeja, who, after utilizing the Lwamgasa Model Center for just three months, reported significant improvements in production.
This transformation underscores the critical role of access to advanced techniques and support in enhancing the productivity and efficiency of small-scale miners, who often operate with limited resources and knowledge.
With over 40 years of mining experience, Mr Luhemeja’s success story exemplifies a growing trend among miners who engage with Model Centers.
The training in mineral extraction and processing not only boosts confidence but also encourages further investment.
Mr Luhemeja observed significant productivity gains after utilizing the Lwamgasa Center, prompting him to also engage with the Katente Center.
“We saw significant achievements in a short time, which gave us the courage to increase our production and invest more,” he stated recently, commending the collaboration with the State Mining Corporation (STAMICO) and the technical expertise available at these facilities.
Furthermore, Mr Luhemeja highlighted that the Ministry of Minerals, through STAMICO, provided expert consultation and guidance, enhancing miners’ understanding of effective practices.
This support has led miners to hire their own professionals, including engineers and geologists, significantly improving operational efficiency.
“We began seeing results in a very short time,” he said, praising both the STAMICO and the experts at the Centres for their exceptional services.
In addition to sending his mineral stones for crushing and processing to the Centres, Mr Luhemeja has also been receiving STAMICO’s experts who have been offering advice and guidance on various aspects of mining.
This collaboration has prompted Mr Luhemeja to recognise the importance of employing its own experts, such as engineers, accountants, human resources managers, geologists, and environmentalists.
The Written Laws (Miscellaneous Amendments) Act, 2017, sparked Luhemeja’s interest in the mining sector, as it clarified many issues and streamlined the availability of markets for mineral-based products.
He encouraged other Tanzanians to venture into the mining industry.
“There is no need for fear. Expertise is now readily available; markets are accessible; guidelines are clear; procedures are well-structured; and infrastructure is in place,” he stated.
Christopher Kadeo, the former chairman of Small-Scale Miners in Geita Region, brought over 40 years of experience in the mining sector, 35 of which were spent in Lwamgasa.
He highlighted the positive impact of the Lwamgasa Mining Centre of Excellence on his mining activities.
“We are grateful to our government for its responsiveness. We requested markets, and they were provided. We asked for a mineral testing office, and GST was brought to us,” he asserted.
Adding: “The government did not stop there; it also established Centres of Excellence, provided us with a drilling rig, and has continued to improve the environment. We are now receiving loans from financial institutions.”
Mr Kadeo emphasised that mining is a scientific undertaking, not a superstitious practice as some may believe.
He urged other small-scale miners to adopt better technology and improved mining techniques, advising them to move away from misguided superstitions.
Masunga Mashauri, a small-scale miner at Lwamgasa, also expressed his gratitude towards the government for establishing the Centre of Excellence in mineral processing, which has aided his success.
He noted that the training provided has improved the efficiency of mineral processing, making it more cost-effective.
However, he also pointed to the need for increased capacity to meet growing demand, indicating that ongoing government engagement is crucial for sustaining the momentum gained through these centers.
“The center’s processing fees are affordable, and we recommend that STAMICO increase its capacity to reduce customer wait times,” he noted.
