DODOMA: A delegation from the Federation of Small-Scale Miners of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FESOCOMIC) has expressed satisfaction and keen interest in the various sustainable initiatives being implemented by the Government of Tanzania—through the Ministry of Minerals—aimed at developing and uplifting small-scale miners in the country.
This was stated on November 3, 2026, by FESOCOMIC Chairperson Alex Murusi, while discussing a visit by a 17-member delegation from the DRC. The group traveled to Tanzania to learn how to develop the small-scale mining sector, guided by experts from the Ministry of Minerals and its affiliated institutions.
During the meeting, Murusi noted that FESOCOMIC has long observed the Tanzanian government’s efforts to formalize the small-scale mining sector. These efforts include market management, the curbing of mineral smuggling, the provision of loans and grants to miners, and the implementation of plans to expand in-depth mineral exploration for the benefit of small-scale miners—all of which prompted their visit to learn from Tanzania’s experience.
Murusi further explained that Tanzania has become an exemplary model in Africa for economically and technologically empowering small-scale miners. The delegation commended the strategies implemented by the Ministry of Minerals—through its affiliated institutions, including the Mining Commission, the State Mining Corporation (STAMICO), and the Geological Survey of Tanzania (GST)—to establish sustainable initiatives. These include research, training, the issuance of small-scale mining licenses, and the provision of 15 drilling rigs for youth and women under the special MBT program.
Discussing the sector’s development in the country, Terence Ngole, Assistant Commissioner for Minerals in charge of Local Content, noted that the mining sector—specifically through small-scale mining—has achieved significant, historic milestones.
Ngole stated that the contribution of small-scale miners to the revenue generated by the mining sector continues to grow rapidly, currently reaching 40 percent. Regarding the sector’s overall economic impact, he explained that mining now contributes 10.3 percent to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
Furthermore, the delegation will have the opportunity to visit various mining projects, mineral processing centers, and value-addition (beneficiation) facilities across the entire mineral value chain, allowing them to observe these systems in operation.
