He said the aim is to de-risk the mining sector to attract more investment and hence benefits of the people of Tanzania and enhance resource monetization for economic growth.

“The focus has now shifted to exploration where we are employing helicopters to conduct a high-resolution survey of the country. The project will add more drilling and tools including a green fleet,” stated Mwasse.

A new laboratory will also be established to provide technical support to local mining companies, according to Mwasse. He said Tanzania is seeking international investment to supplement government funding for the project.

The Government of Tanzania is also investing in infrastructure enhancements such as roads and railways improvements to strengthen critical minerals supply chain.

“To meet industry demand, we are bolstering energy infrastructure with projects like the Julius Nyerere Hydropower Plant,” he said, adding “We are also engaging with partners at forums like the Critical Minerals Africa Summit to attract further investment.”

Commenting on the unique opportunities within Tanzania’s mining sector, Mwasse stated that in addition to rare earths and graphite resources, the country is the only holding tanzanite, “the rarest gemstone in the world,” and has various minerals such as nickel, niobium and heavy mineral sands.

He said the country has clear regulations and stable political environment, making it an ideal investment destination for global critical mineral investors seeking for high return on investment.

“Without geology there is no mining. We are blessed with a unique geology setup bearing a range of critical minerals including rare earths, graphite and Tanzanite – the world’s rarest gemstone,” reiterated Mwasse.