MWE Correspondent
A leading gold producer operating in Tanzania has underscored its commitment to maintaining safe and environmentally responsible Tailings Storage Facilities (TSFs), saying strong waste-management systems are essential to protecting workers and communities living around mining areas.
The company emphasized that its facilities are built to meet international standards and continue to undergo strict monitoring to ensure long-term stability.
The assurance was made during a tailings-management conference taking place in Mwanza, where engineers, government regulators and environmental specialists gathered to review the state of mine-waste infrastructure across the country. The event comes at a time when Tanzania’s mining sector is expanding, prompting renewed attention to the safety of tailings — the waste material left after minerals are processed.
Speaking at the conference, the Mine Closure Manager responsible for overseeing one of the country’s large gold sites explained that tailings facilities require continuous assessment, even when a mine approaches closure. He said the company has strengthened its monitoring systems, installing sensors, conducting routine inspections and working closely with environmental and safety authorities.
“We have a responsibility to make sure these structures remain safe at all times,” he said. “Our systems are designed to prevent risks to employees, neighbouring households and the surrounding environment. We work in full compliance with national laws and align our practices with global safety standards.”
In recent years, several countries have struggled with tailings-dam failures that caused severe environmental damage—events that have pushed governments worldwide to tighten regulations. Tanzanian officials at the conference noted that the country is determined to avoid such tragedies by enforcing rigorous oversight, strengthening reporting systems and encouraging mining operators to adopt global best practices.
Environmental experts at the meeting highlighted that safe TSF management is central to broader national goals of environmental protection and sustainable resource development.
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They pointed out that poorly managed mine waste can affect water sources, agricultural land and public health—issues that require long-term and scientifically sound planning.
Community representatives from mining districts also participated in the discussions, raising concerns about water security, land use and the future of sites undergoing closure. Many acknowledged that clear communication and transparency help build trust between mining companies and host communities, especially when operations wind down and rehabilitation begins.
Industry analysts argue that responsible mining is becoming an increasingly important measure of corporate credibility. They note that global investors, regulators and civil-society groups now pay closer attention to how companies handle waste, manage risk and plan for the future of communities around mining areas. For Tanzania—one of Africa’s emerging hubs for gold production—strong TSF management is seen as central to sustaining growth without compromising safety.
Experts concluded that a long-term approach to tailings oversight, supported by improved technology and stronger collaboration between government and industry, will help ensure that mining operations remain safe and environmentally sound. They emphasized that the country’s mining future depends not only on resource extraction but also on responsible stewardship of mineral processing waste.
