Dodoma. Tanzania and the US have officially announced a long-term partnership focused on graphite research.
The aim is to unlock the full potential of Tanzania’s rich mineral deposits while advancing technological collaboration between the two countries.
The agreement is expected to provide both economic and strategic benefits amid rising global demand for graphite.
Speaking in Dodoma on January 21, 2026, the minister for Minerals, Anthony Mavunde, said the collaboration will strengthen the use of modern technology in the mining sector, improve resource productivity, and position Tanzania as a major global supplier of high-demand minerals.
“The partnership with the United States is designed to benefit both countries, particularly given Tanzania’s abundant resources and potential in technology and energy,” Mr Mavunde said.
He noted that US authorities have committed to expanding joint research to identify untapped resources and investment opportunities.
The research will focus on the Lindi and Mtwara regions on licenses held by the National Mining Corporation (STAMICO), with the goal of enabling the state-owned mining corporation to develop a major graphite mine.
Mr Mavunde highlighted that global demand for graphite is projected to reach 4.5 million tonnes annually by 2050.
“Tanzania is in a strong position to become one of the world’s leading suppliers of this critical mineral,” he said.
A statement posted on the official Facebook page of the US Embassy in Tanzania on 21 January 2026 said the US was deploying cutting-edge technology and expertise in partnership with STAMICO and GST to explore Tanzania’s rich graphite deposits.
“American companies look forward to continuing this work with Tanzania to realise the full potential of this vast resource,” the statement reads in part.
Acting US Ambassador Andrew Lentz described the collaboration as a demonstration of the enduring bilateral relationship and emphasised that graphite research will provide precise resource mapping, attract investment, and create employment opportunities for Tanzanians.
Graphite has become a critical mineral in the global transition to green energy, powering electric vehicle batteries, energy storage systems, and high-tech industrial applications.
Tanzania’s partnership with the US positions the country as a strategic contributor to the global supply chain, while also fostering domestic industrial growth.
Mr Mavunde reaffirmed Tanzania’s commitment to close collaboration with the US in mining and other strategic sectors to strengthen the national economy and maximise benefits for citizens.
Ambassador Lentz added that the US will continue to support professional training and technology exchanges, ensuring that local expertise grows alongside the development of the country’s mineral resources.
