Buzwagi, Kahama — Tanzania has taken a significant step toward expanding its mineral exploration capacity with the launch of a state-of-the-art helicopter equipped for advanced geological surveys.
The initiative forms part of the government’s broader strategy to increase detailed mineral exploration coverage to 50 percent of the country by 2030, in line with the national 2030 Minerals Vision: “Minerals are Life and Wealth.”
The helicopter was officially launched on Sunday by the Minister for Minerals, Mr Anthony Mavunde, at Buzwagi in Kahama District. The launch marked the commencement of exploration activities to be undertaken by Barrick, as part of preparations for the development of a new mining project.
Speaking during the ceremony, Mr Mavunde said the initiative reflects the government’s commitment to expanding mineral exploration through collaboration with both public and private sector players.
“Through the 2030 Minerals Vision, President Samia Suluhu Hassan directed the expansion of detailed mineral exploration across the country,” he said. “What we are witnessing today demonstrates that this vision is being realised. We thank Barrick for supporting these efforts in a practical and meaningful way.”
Mr Mavunde explained that the exploration programme will cover Msalala, Nzega, Igunga, Mbogwe, and Nyangh’wale, with the helicopter collecting high-quality geological data to guide decisions on the establishment of a new mine.
He added that areas found unsuitable for large-scale mining would be allocated to small-scale miners, a move aimed at supporting orderly mining activities, providing technical guidance, and reducing unregulated or speculative extraction.
Barrick’s Country Manager for Tanzania, Dr Melkiory Ngido, said the company has invested more than Sh100 billion in advanced mineral exploration since commencing operations in 2020.
He noted that Barrick’s three operational mines in Tanzania have contributed over Sh14 trillion to the domestic economy through taxes, royalties, employment, and local procurement.
Shinyanga Regional Commissioner Mr Mboni Mhita commended the government for fostering an investment-friendly environment that continues to attract and retain major mining investors.
Members of Parliament for Kahama Town, Mr Benjamin Ngayiwa, and Msalala Constituency, Mr Mabula Magangila, also welcomed the initiative, citing expectations that new mining developments will create employment opportunities and stimulate economic growth in the region.
Mr Mavunde said the deployment of the helicopter underscores the government’s determination to promote sustainable, efficient, and technology-driven mineral exploration, aligned with Tanzania’s long-term development objectives under the 2030 Minerals Vision.
