MWE Correspondent
Tanzania and the United States have intensified collaborative efforts in the country’s mineral sector, focusing particularly on strategic minerals such as cobalt, to boost efficiency, management, employment, and contributions to national economic growth.
The partnership aims to advance mineral exploration, improve regulatory frameworks, and promote sustainable development within the sector.
Speaking on January 21, 2025, during a high-level meeting in Dodoma with a special delegation from the United States Embassy led by Acting Ambassador Andrew Lentz, Tanzania’s Minister of Minerals, Anthony Mavunde, highlighted that the cooperation is being implemented through the US Department of State’s Energy and Mineral Governance Program. The initiative is designed to strengthen national capacity in geological research, mineral exploration, and sector management.
Minister Mavunde expressed gratitude to the United States for decades of technical and financial assistance across a variety of sectors, including education, agriculture, infrastructure, healthcare, governance, and democracy. He emphasized that US support, particularly in providing modern equipment such as drills, geoscience data collection tools, and analysis technology, demonstrates a sustained commitment to enhancing Tanzania’s mineral sector management and its contribution to national development.
“This is a timely opportunity for the Geological Survey of Tanzania and the National Mining Corporation (STAMICO) to leverage this collaboration to improve capacity in data collection, processing, and dissemination of geoscientific information using state-of-the-art technology,” Mavunde said.
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The Minister highlighted that joint exploration efforts are expected to uncover significant cobalt deposits in Mtwara and Lindi regions, positioning Tanzania among the world’s top producers. By 2050, global demand for cobalt is projected to reach approximately 4.5 million tons, underscoring the strategic importance of these initiatives.
Through this partnership, Tanzanian geologists and mineral experts will receive specialized training to employ advanced exploration techniques and strengthen overall expertise in mineral resource management. This is expected to enhance the efficiency and sustainability of mining operations while improving regulatory oversight.
Acting US Ambassador Andrew Lentz praised the Tanzanian government for advancing collaborations that leverage modern technology, especially in clean and renewable energy sectors, including the exploration of strategic minerals essential for industrial development. He added that technical support for mineral exploration will significantly improve geoscience research, data management, and conservation practices, positioning Tanzania as a regional hub for mineral research in East Africa and the broader continent.
The partnership signals a deeper commitment between Tanzania and the United States to harness strategic mineral resources responsibly, boost economic growth, and ensure that development benefits are shared widely with local communities. Analysts note that such collaborations also enhance Tanzania’s economic diplomacy, strengthen public-private partnerships, and encourage sustainable investment in critical sectors.
