Africa-Press – Tanzania. THE Minister for Minerals, Anthony Mavunde, has launched the deployment of a helicopter fitted with advanced exploration equipment as part of the government’s strategy to expand Tanzania’s mineral exploration coverage to 50 percent by 2030.
The launching ceremony took place at the Buzwagi area in Kahama District, marking the official start of mineral exploration activities by Barrick aimed at establishing a new mine.
Speaking at the launching event, Mr Mavunde said the initiative aligns with the Mineral Vision 2030, “Minerals for Life and Wealth,” under which President Samia Suluhu Hassan directed the government to expand advanced mineral exploration through both public and private sector investment.
“What we are doing here demonstrates the government’s commitment to implementing the President’s vision, and Barrick has done a commendable job by supporting the strategy through practical investment,” he said.
Additionally, he said that the airborne survey will cover the areas of Msalala, Nzega, Igunga, Mbogwe, and Nyang’hwale to collect geological data to support the development of a new mining project.
Moreover, Minister Mavunde directed Barrick to see that areas identified during the survey as unsuitable for large-scale mining should be allocated to small-scale miners to guide their operations and curb speculative mining activities.
Speaking earlier, the Barrick Tanzania Country Manager Dr Melkiory Ngido, said the company has invested more than 100bn/- in advanced mineral exploration since commencing operations in Tanzania in 2020.
He added that through its three operating mines, Barrick has contributed more than 14tri/- to Tanzania’s domestic economic circulation.
