Tanzania and India have reached an agreement to collaborate in the development of research on strategic minerals. The move comes just five days after Tanzania signed agreements worth $667 million with Australian firms to transform the country into a hub for mining and beneficiation of graphite and rare earth minerals in Africa.
Collaboration in mining and geophysics research
At a meeting attended by experts from both countries at the Ministry of Minerals in Dar es Salaam, it was agreed that the two countries would also collaborate in the mining sector and develop geophysics research through high-resolution surveys. The Geological Survey of Tanzania will partner with Indian organizations to carry out the surveys.
The two countries have also agreed to cooperate in training for small-scale mining in value addition, especially in gemstones, and in developing human resources for value addition activities. The agreements will pave the way for execution of the activities, and both sides agreed to complete all procedures related to the agreements made.
Tanzania’s strategy
The agreement is part of the Tanzanian government’s ongoing efforts to implement its strategies in the mining sector, which include opening large-scale mines and placing emphasis on strategic minerals like graphite. The government is also focusing on developing and encouraging value addition activities to be carried out in the country, empowering many youths to acquire skills in value addition, including through the Tanzania Gemmological Centre.
As the world transitions to cleaner sources of energy, minerals are considered critical and strategic to the economy and national security of both industrialized and developing countries. The agreement between Tanzania and India will, therefore, have immense benefits for Tanzania, including taxes, tariffs, job creation, infrastructure development, technological advancement, and social services delivery through corporate social responsibility.
Joint venture companies have been established
According to President Samia, negotiations with the Australian firms have led to the establishment of joint venture companies, which will provide an opportunity for people to work within and outside the country.
Cooperation between Tanzania and India in developing research on strategic minerals maximizes the country’s potential in the mining sector. The move will also provide job opportunities for Tanzanians, infrastructure development, and other social benefits.
