Tanzania and Uganda engaged in a collaborative meeting to share mining knowledge, focusing on improving artisanal and small-scale mining operations. Highlighting Tanzania’s successful reforms and sustainable practices, Ugandan officials expressed intentions to adopt similar strategies. This partnership aims to enhance regional mining sectors and strengthen regulatory frameworks, thereby promoting local economic development.
The recent collaboration between Tanzania and Uganda signifies a proactive approach towards enhancing local mining sectors through knowledge sharing. On December 3, 2024, officials from Uganda’s Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development, the Uganda Chamber of Mines, and small-scale mining representatives met with Tanzanian mining experts in Dodoma. This meeting, facilitated by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) under the ACP-EU Development Minerals Programme, was dedicated to exchanging best practices in the management of artisanal and small-scale mining operations as part of a broader initiative aimed at sustainable development of mineral resources.
Tanzania has made noteworthy progress in reforming its mining sector since gaining independence in 1961, particularly in enhancing private sector engagement and institutional development. Yahya Samamba, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Minerals, underscored the importance of the Geological Survey of Tanzania, the State Mining Corporation, and the Tanzania Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative in promoting sustainable mining practices and facilitating access to financing for small-scale miners.
Uganda’s Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development, represented by Irene Bateebe, commended Tanzania’s achievements in artisanal mining management and expressed a commitment to adopt similar strategies in Uganda. She stressed the significance of knowledge transfer in strengthening regulatory frameworks and enhancing the conditions for small-scale miners in Uganda. UNDP National Coordinator Godfrey Nyamrunda highlighted the importance of regional partnerships and knowledge-sharing towards realizing Africa’s resource potential.
Speaking on mining reforms, Tanzania’s Minister for Minerals, Anthony Mavunde, reiterated the country’s commitment to efficiency, value addition, and stringent mineral regulation enforcement, which have notably reduced smuggling and increased local mining participation. The meeting also noted Uganda’s advancements in legislation with the enactment of a new mining law, aimed at better streamlining regulations and enhancing support for its vital artisanal and small-scale mining sector, which significantly contributes to construction, farming, and manufacturing sectors.
The mining cooperation between Tanzania and Uganda comes at a time when both nations seek to optimize their mining sectors’ potential. Artisanal and small-scale mining has gained popularity due to its significant contributions to local economies, especially in construction and agriculture. With Tanzania’s successful mining reform since independence, Uganda looks to replicate its neighbor’s successful practices to enhance its regulatory framework and improve the livelihoods of miners.
In conclusion, the partnership between Tanzania and Uganda represents an important step towards regional development in the mining sector. With Tanzania’s established practices in artisanal and small-scale mining, Uganda aims to learn and implement similar approaches that could lead to sustainable industry growth. As emphasized by officials from both countries, knowledge sharing and effective regulatory practices are crucial in harnessing the full potential of their respective mining resources.
Original Source: www.thecitizen.co.tz
