Dodoma. The Tanzanian government minister has issued a stern warning to regional resident mining officers whose offices would be involved in, or responsible for, recurring disputes in mining activities.
The warning was issued by the minister for Minerals, Mr Anthony Mavunde, on January 22 while officiating at the opening of a Mining Commission (MC) management meeting.
He said the government will not hesitate to take decisive disciplinary action against those who violate the law.
Mr Mavunde underscored the imperative for strict adherence to the Mining Act and its regulations in the execution of official duties.
The meeting brought together directors, managers and Regional Resident Mining Officers and was convened to assess the Commission’s performance during the second quarter of the year, as well as to chart strategies for addressing emerging challenges in the mining sector.
Mr Mavunde said the government has noted with concern that some officials in Regional Mining Offices have been contributing to frequent conflicts in mining areas by issuing licences to unqualified applicants, a practice that has fuelled complaints and disputes among miners.
“If I find that disputes among miners are prevalent in your area and I am satisfied beyond doubt that your office is responsible, I will not hesitate to take tough action, including removing you from your position,” the Mr Mavunde warned.
He directed Regional Resident Mining Officers to uphold the principles of fairness, transparency and professionalism in service delivery, while also encouraging more citizens to apply for mining licences by fostering a friendly and facilitative investment environment.
In a related directive, Mr Mavunde ordered Regional Resident Mining Officers to submit, within seven days, a list of large-scale mineral exploration licences that remain inactive, noting that legal measures would be taken against the holders, including the issuance of notices of offence and the revocation of such licences.
The session was also attended by the deputy minister for Minerals, Dr Steven Kiruswa; the deputy Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Minerals, Msafiri Mbibo and MC’s chairperson, Dr Janet Lekashingo.
Others who attended include MC’s Commissioner, Mr Theonestina Mwasha and the executive secretary Mr Ramadhani Lwamo.
