London. The Tanzania Geological Survey (GST) and the British Geological Survey (BGS) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate in various areas of geoscientific research, including mineral exploration, advanced laboratory analysis, and technological exchange.
The agreement was formalised on May 22, 2025 in London, in a ceremony witnessed by a Tanzanian delegation led by the Deputy Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Minerals, Mr Msafiri Mbibo, and Tanzania’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Mr Mbelwa Kairuki.
Speaking shortly after the signing, GST chief executive officer, Dr Mussa Daniel Budeba outlined the key areas covered under the MoU.
These include joint mineral research initiatives, the deployment of advanced technological equipment, and laboratory-based mineral sample analysis.
Dr Budeba said the agreement also provides for joint projects in geological, geochemical, and airborne geophysical surveys; geological mapping; monitoring and management of geological hazards; geoscientific data management; environmental monitoring; staff training; and knowledge exchange.
“The collaboration will greatly enhance our technical capacity in mineral exploration and geoscience data management,” he noted.
“It opens new opportunities for Tanzanian experts to access modern technology, up-to-date research methodologies, and international best practices.”
The partnership is expected to improve Tanzania’s ability to map its mineral wealth and manage geoscientific data more effectively, thereby attracting quality investments in the extractive sector.
It also comes at a time when the country is seeking to increase the value addition and local beneficiation of its mineral resources.
Earlier, while officiating the signing ceremony, Mr Mbibo commended both institutions for finalising the agreement and pledged the government’s full support to ensure the successful implementation of the collaboration.
“This agreement marks a significant step in our efforts to strengthen institutional capacity and scientific research in the mineral sector,” he said.
“We are confident that this partnership will contribute meaningfully to our national development agenda.”
The Tanzania Geological Survey operates under the Ministry of Minerals and is responsible for conducting geological research, mapping, and maintaining a national geoscientific database.
The British Geological Survey, a world-renowned geoscience institution, has a long history of supporting global geological research, particularly in resource exploration and natural hazard management.
The MoU reflects growing international interest in Tanzania’s mineral potential, especially amid global efforts to secure supply chains for critical minerals essential for the energy transition and digital economy.
