Dodoma Region is preparing to write a new history in the mineral refining sector, following the final stages of construction of the new Shengde Precious Metal Resources Company Ltd factory being built in the Nala area.
The factory is expected to officially start production of copper cathode in July, 2025.
During a special inspection visit, the Resident Minerals Officer of Dodoma Region, Engineer Menard Msengi, said the construction of the factory is a major step towards the implementation of the order of the Minister of Minerals, Mr. Anthony Mavunde to ensure that by July 30, 2025, the refining of all copper mined in the country takes place within the borders of Tanzania.
“The arrival of this factory is an important catalyst in the development of the Mining Sector in Dodoma Region and the country in general”, said Engineer Msengi
He added that this project will benefit small-scale miners by providing them with a reliable market, increasing the value of minerals and increasing the income of the citizens and the nation.
The factory is among the projects being monitored through a United Nations Development Program (UNDP) project, which aims to stimulate the development of the industrial Mining Sector as well as monitoring issues of royalties, mine safety and the sector’s contribution to sustainable development.
The Director of the Shengde factory, Mrs. Abia Mafie, said that the factory has already started production trials and can produce 20 tons of copper cathode per day.
“We are expecting the arrival of larger machines that will increase our capacity to produce 1,000 tons per day. This will help small-scale miners who are challenged by the lack of a market due to international standards,” said Mrs. Mafie.
Showing the visitors how the production is done, Mafie noted that the factory uses every piece of mineral available.
“We even use copper dust to make bricks, nothing is left behind”, he said
He announced the company’s plan to build five more factories in various regions of Tanzania as part of their contribution to the Government’s efforts to add value to minerals before they are exported abroad.
