Summary
The project, which cost more than 426m/- forms part of the government’s broader strategy to improve energy infrastructure in mining communities and create a more competitive operating environment for small and medium-scale miners.
By Our Correspondent / Nyang’hwale, Geita
SMALL- scale miners in Nyang’hwale District, Geita Region, have commended the government for expanding electricity infrastructure to mining areas, describing the investment as a major boost to productivity, lower production costs and sustainable growth in Tanzania’s mining sector.
The appreciation was expressed during the inauguration of a 500 KVA electricity project at the Igalula Small-Scale Miners’ Mine by the Minister for Minerals, Mr. Anthony Mavunde.
The project, which cost more than 426m/- forms part of the government’s broader strategy to improve energy infrastructure in mining communities and create a more competitive operating environment for small and medium-scale miners.
Speaking during the launch, Mr Mavunde said the government remains committed to transforming the mining sector by providing reliable electricity to mining sites, enabling miners to increase production while reducing operational expenses.
He revealed that the government has already invested more than 7bn/- in extending electricity to mining areas across the country.
The initiative has significantly reduced miners’ dependence on expensive diesel-powered generators, lowering production costs while improving efficiency and profitability.
“The government is determined to create an enabling environment that allows miners to operate more efficiently, increase output and contribute more to the national economy,”Mr Mavunde said.
Water Project to Benefit More Than 24,000 Residents
As part of his working tour in Geita Region, the minister also inspected the ongoing Kakola Village clean and safe water project, which is expected to benefit more than 24,801 residents upon completion.
He said the project reflects President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s commitment to expanding access to clean water and easing the burden on women and families who have traditionally travelled long distances in search of water.
“The President’s pledge to relieve women of the burden of carrying water over long distances is being fulfilled through projects such as this one in Kakola. It will improve public health, enhance livelihoods and stimulate local economic activities,” Mr Mavunde said.
New School Brings Education Closer to Children
In the education sector, Mr Mavunde inaugurated Imara Baruti Primary School, constructed to eliminate the need for pupils to walk nearly four kilometres to attend classes at Shabaka Primary School.
He said the new school is in line with the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) Election Manifesto, which prioritises the construction of schools closer to residential communities to improve access to quality education.
“The government under President Dr Samia Suluhu Hassan continues to demonstrate that its promises are translated into tangible development projects that directly improve the lives of Tanzanians,” he said.
Geita’s Development Momentum
Geita Regional Commissioner Mr. Martin Shigella praised the minister for touring and commissioning development projects across the region, saying the visits have accelerated project implementation and strengthened monitoring of public service delivery.
He noted that sustained investment in the mining, education, water and energy sectors is positioning Geita as one of Tanzania’s leading centres for mineral production while simultaneously driving social and economic development.
