Joseph Isangura
Coordinator of the Tanzania Gemology Centre (TGC) Ally Maganga, highlighted the pressing challenge of inadequate technology facing Tanzania’s mineral value addition sector.
Speaking on November 7, 2024, at the Mwananchi X-Space discussion hosted by Mwananchi Communications Limited (MCL) in partnership with the Ministry of Minerals and the Tanzania Chamber of Mines, Maganga noted that limited access to advanced technology is hindering the sector’s growth.
Maganga explained that accessing necessary technologies for value addition is difficult and often requires extensive resources and international partnerships. “Obtaining this technology demands substantial investment to ensure proper management and utilization,” he said. “Investors are often reluctant to share their technological secrets, as this knowledge holds significant economic value in their own countries.”
The X-Space discussion, themed “Where We Are and Where We Are Going: Towards the International Mineral Investment Conference in Tanzania,” brought together experts to discuss the sector’s challenges and future prospects. Participants emphasized the need for Tanzania to secure advanced technology while simultaneously developing local expertise.
Maganga underscored the importance of strategic investments that not only secure essential technology but also promote skills transfer. “We must focus on these investments while enhancing local skills development through exposure to international experts,” he added.
Tanzania’s mineral sector, rich in gemstones and other valuable minerals, has tremendous potential to increase its contribution to the national economy through value-added production.
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However, the lack of advanced processing technology leaves the country dependent on external players for processing and refining, limiting potential profits and job creation.
With the upcoming international mineral investment conference, Tanzania aims to attract investors willing to bring cutting-edge technology and training, facilitating a more independent and sustainable sector. Maganga and other experts at the event stressed that technology and expertise are crucial for Tanzania to realize its ambitions of becoming a regional leader in mineral value addition, bolstering both economic growth and local skill development.
