MWE Correspondent
Tanzania has taken a significant step toward value addition in its mining sector with the official launch of a livestock nutritional salt production facility in Uvinza District.
The initiative aligns with President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s call to enhance the economic benefits of the country’s mineral resources.
Minister for Minerals Anthony Mavunde praised the move, noting that it marked a milestone in reducing dependence on imported livestock supplements, commonly known as cattle lick. “This development is not only a fulfillment of the President’s directive but also a reflection of the legal framework governing mineral beneficiation in Tanzania,” he said during the launch on Friday.
For years, Tanzanian farmers have relied on imported nutritional salt blocks due to the lack of local production. Mavunde emphasized that the new facility would provide a sustainable domestic supply, lowering costs for livestock keepers and improving animal health. “Turning ordinary salt into specialized livestock nutrition demonstrates how value addition can directly benefit the economy,” he said.
Officials also highlighted the project’s broader economic impact. By producing salt locally, Tanzania will reduce reliance on imports while creating new employment opportunities and stimulating local industries. The facility is expected to contribute significantly to the growth of the Tanzanian salt industry, which has been expanding steadily in recent years.
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The company behind the initiative plans to scale production to 120,000 tonnes by 2027, ensuring a consistent supply of high-quality nutritional salt for farmers nationwide. Management confirmed that the facility would adhere to international quality standards to maximize benefits for local livestock owners.
Local authorities welcomed the project. Uvinza District Commissioner Dina Mathamani described the facility as a catalyst for economic growth in the region, providing both direct and indirect employment opportunities and contributing to community development.
Experts note that the launch represents a strategic approach to industrialization in Tanzania. By shifting from exporting raw materials to producing value-added products, the country is seeking to strengthen its domestic economy while supporting critical sectors such as livestock farming, which plays a central role in rural livelihoods.
The initiative also highlights Tanzania’s ongoing efforts to improve the business environment for investors, encouraging innovation and sustainable production practices in the mineral sector. For farmers, the availability of locally produced livestock salt promises to boost productivity and reduce costs over the long term.
