In a bold move, for the aim of revitalising its mining sector and protecting national resources, the Minerals Ministry of Tanzania has issued breach notices to 95 and medium-scale mining companies for failing to comply with their license terms. Announced on Tuesday, May 5th,2025, in Dar es Salaam, this action is part of a broader effort to enhance accountability in the country’s mining industry.
Hon. Anthony Mavunde, the minister of minerals, emphasised the urgency of addressing inactive licenses during a press briefing. Also, he revealed that some of these companies have held licenses since 2011 without initiating any mining activity. Thus, leaving over TZS 15 trillion (about $5.8 billion) in idle capital.
Mavunde said: “Just seven of the 95 companies hold capital worth TZS 15 trillion that is sitting idle. We cannot be a country that issues licenses to stimulate mining sector growth, only for people to sit on them, claiming they are still negotiating with the government or giving other excuses.”
