Dodoma. The ministry of Minerals has entered into an implementation agreement with CRDB Bank aimed at expanding access to capital for small-scale miners, in a move expected to enhance productivity, modernise operations and strengthen the sector’s contribution to government revenue.
The agreement establishes a special financing programme through which licensed small-scale miners will be able to access loans for the acquisition of carbon-in-pulp (CIP) processing plants, mining equipment and working capital.
The initiative forms part of the government’s broader strategy to empower local miners and ensure that mineral resources generate tangible benefits for Tanzanians.
Speaking during a meeting to discuss proposed areas of cooperation between CRDB Bank and the Mining Commission on the provision of credit to small-scale miners, the minister for Minerals, Mr Anthony Mavunde, said the partnership would address long-standing challenges related to limited access to affordable financing.
Mr Mavunde explained that under the arrangement, small-scale miners holding valid mining licences will be eligible to apply for loans from CRDB Bank, enabling them to invest in modern technology, improve efficiency and increase output.
He noted that enhanced productivity among small-scale miners would, in turn, translate into higher revenues and sustained growth in government royalties and other levies from the mining sector.
Highlighting one of the early beneficiaries of the programme, the minister said the SAZA Gold Family group is close to securing a Sh30 billion loan from CRDB Bank.
The funds are intended for the purchase of a gold processing plant and essential mining equipment for operations in the Saza area of Songwe Region.
Mr Mavunde recalled that the group’s progress is linked to a directive issued by President Samia Suluhu Hassan during her visit to the Saza area.
He said that during the visit, small-scale miners, through the Member of Parliament for Songwe, Mr Philipo Mulugo, appealed for a mining licence to enable them to formalise and expand their activities.
In response, President Samia directed that a mining licence previously held by BAFEX Company be allocated to the small-scale miners, a decision aimed at promoting local participation in the mining industry and ensuring that citizens benefit directly from the country’s mineral wealth.
Following the directive, the SAZA Gold Family group was granted the licence and commenced mining operations.
The group subsequently applied for financing to acquire a mineral processing plant and mining equipment, triggering immediate engagement with CRDB Bank under the newly established framework.
The minister said the initiative demonstrates the government’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for small-scale miners by combining policy support, access to licences and financial inclusion.
He added that similar arrangements would be extended to other eligible groups across the country as part of efforts to transform small-scale mining into a more organised, productive and sustainable subsector.
The Ministry of Minerals expects the programme to play a critical role in reducing informal mining practices, improving safety and environmental management, and accelerating inclusive growth within Tanzania’s mining industry.
