Ministry of Minerals reports extensive mine inspections and emphasizes safety measures for sector growth

DODOMA-The Ministry of Minerals has reported that a total of 21,686 mines were inspected from July 2023 to April 2024. The comprehensive inspection covered eight large-scale mines, 56 medium-scale mines, and 21,622 small-scale mines.

This announcement was made by Msafiri Mbibo, the Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Minerals, representing Hon. Anthony Mavunde, Minister of Minerals, at the Annual General Meeting of Mine Inspectors of the Mining Commission, held today at Kambarage - Treasury in Dodoma.Mbibo emphasized that these inspections have been instrumental in enhancing the mining sector's performance, boosting revenue collections, and contributing significantly to economic growth."Despite the sector's improvements, challenges persist, particularly accidents in small-scale mining operations caused by pit collapses and insufficient ventilation," Mbibo noted.

He further explained that in response to these challenges, the Mining Commission, led by Executive Secretary Engineer Yahya Samamba, has been directed to intensify and ensure regular inspections, particularly in small-scale mining areas where accidents are more frequent compared to medium and large-scale operations.

Mbibo also highlighted the importance of providing ongoing education to small-scale miners, many of whom lack adequate knowledge of workplace health and safety practices.

"You have a great responsibility to manage and guide them towards safe mining methods and the safe use of explosives to prevent accidents that jeopardize their safety and impede the growth of the small mining industry," said Mbibo.

He stressed, "We, as the Ministry, believe that the life of one miner is more important than any mineral production."

Looking ahead, Mbibo stated that for the mining sector to reach its goal of contributing 10 percent to the National GDP by 2025, mine inspectors must continue to manage and strengthen inspections.

Mbibo also directed mine inspectors to enhance inspections across all mines to prevent accidents and ensure continuous production.

"Continue to provide education on health, safety, the safe use of explosives, and environmental care to all miners. I urge you to perform your duties with integrity, responsibility, and leadership, avoiding corruption and unfair treatment of miners, and to continue working together to achieve our goals," emphasized the Deputy Permanent Secretary.

Engineer Yahya Samamba, Executive Secretary of the Mining Commission, acknowledged the critical role of mine inspectors in ensuring safe mining operations and reducing accidents.

He reported a decline in accident statistics, including fatalities, injuries, and environmental impacts since the Commission began its official work in April 2018.

He attributed this improvement to the diligent efforts of inspectors and the guidance from the Ministry of Minerals under Hon. Minister Anthony Mavunde.

"Excluding wars, where large numbers of people die at once, and the mining sector is another area where significant loss of life can occur simultaneously. In an incident, 40 to 50 people can lose their lives at once," Engineer Samamba cautioned.

He concluded by emphasizing the importance of the meeting for capacity building and sharing best practices in mine management.

The meeting underscored the commitment of the Ministry of Minerals and the Mining Commission to enhancing safety, education, and effective management in the mining sector, aiming for a safer and more productive future.