Tanzanian mining officials recently met with Ugandan representatives to share expertise in managing artisanal and small-scale mining. The meeting, facilitated by UNDP, emphasized best practices and regulatory improvements. Key figures, including Yahya Samamba and Irene Bateebe, highlighted Tanzania’s successes and Uganda’s commitment to enhancing its mining sector regulations.
On December 3, 2024, in Dodoma, Tanzania, a significant collaboration took place between Tanzanian mining experts and officials from Uganda, including representatives from the Uganda Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development. This gathering was facilitated by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) as part of the ACP-EU Development Minerals Programme, aimed at promoting sustainable mining practices. Irene Bateebe, the Ugandan minister, articulated Uganda’s respect for Tanzania’s effective management of artisanal and small-scale mining operations and expressed her intention to implement similar strategies in her country.
Tanzania’s Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Minerals, Yahya Samamba, presented the extensive progress Tanzania has made in its mining sector since gaining independence in 1961. He noted advancements in value addition and strong institutional frameworks, highlighting the pivotal roles of the Geological Survey of Tanzania, the State Mining Corporation, and the Tanzania Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative. Mr. Samamba reaffirmed the importance of these institutions in supporting small-scale miners and promoting sustainable practices.
Minister Bateebe emphasized the importance of knowledge exchange between the two nations, aiming to enhance regulatory frameworks in Uganda’s mining sector. Her remarks underscored the shared learning objectives to improve conditions for small-scale miners in Uganda. UNDP National Coordinator Godfrey Nyamrunda reiterated that regional cooperation is vital for maximizing the continent’s resource potential, aligning with UNDP’s mission to empower communities and foster South-South cooperation. Furthermore, Tanzania’s Minister for Minerals, Anthony Mavunde, asserted the country’s commitment to efficient mining operations and stringent regulatory enforcement that have effectively curbed smuggling and boosted local involvement in mining activities.
Additionally, the gathering acknowledged Uganda’s progress in legislating a new mining law to streamline regulatory processes. Given that Uganda’s mining sector significantly contributes to construction, agriculture, and manufacturing mainly through artisanal and small-scale mining, this collaborative effort promises substantial benefits for the region.
The collaboration between Tanzania and Uganda in sharing mining expertise reflects a growing trend in East Africa to foster regional partnerships aimed at developing sustainable mining practices. Both countries face the challenges of managing artisanal and small-scale mining operations while maximizing the socio-economic benefits of their mineral resources. With the facilitation of the UNDP, these discussions aim to enhance knowledge sharing and help shape regulatory frameworks, thereby improving conditions for miners and promoting sustainable practices in the mining sector.
In conclusion, the meeting between Tanzanian and Ugandan officials marks a crucial step towards collaboration in the mining sector aimed at fostering sustainable development. Through the sharing of best practices and understanding the importance of institutional frameworks, both nations are poised to enhance their mining operations significantly. This cooperation not only highlights regional solidarity but also emphasizes the vital role of artisanal and small-scale mining in bolstering economic growth and development in Uganda and Tanzania.
Original Source: www.thecitizen.co.tz
