Dodoma. The Minister for Minerals, Anthony Mavunde, has ordered the revocation of 73 medium-scale mining and mineral exploration licences that have not been developed.
Mr Mavunde issued the briefing during a press briefing at the offices of the Minerals Commission in the city on November 25.
He said the cancellations are in line with President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s instructions, aimed at enabling the ministry to fully execute its mandate, ensure that established goals are met, and guarantee that Tanzania’s mineral resources benefit the nation and its citizens.
He revealed that a total of 741,494 acres had been held under licences without any development, a situation contrary to the Mining Act, Cap. 123.
“Of the licences revoked, 44 were exploration licences while 29 were medium-scale mining licences, reflecting the failure of the holders to correct deficiencies in compliance,” Mr Mavunde noted.
Mr Mavunde further explained that the areas released through the cancellations will be allocated for youth-focused initiatives under the Mining for a Brighter Tomorrow (MBT) programme, allowing young Tanzanians and ready investors to participate and benefit from the country’s mineral wealth.
The move is expected to reinvigorate the sector by ensuring that unutilised mineral lands are directed towards productive use, particularly projects support youth engagement and sustainable mining practices.
