BABATI: THE Itracom Fertilizer Limited Mine, engaged in the extraction and processing of phosphate minerals at Vilima Vitatu in Babati District, Manyara Region, has contributed a total of 1.29bn/- to the government’s revenue since it began operations in 2023.
Geologist Waziri Mkupe revealed this in the Manyara when speaking on behalf of the Manyara Regional Resident Mines Officer, Godfrey Nyanda noting that the revenue was generated from royalties and mineral inspection fees.
Elaborating, Mkupe stated that since the start of production, the mine has produced a total of 69,929 tonnes of phosphate minerals worth 36.99bn/- which have been sold in both domestic and international markets, particularly in Nala, Dodoma Region, and in Burundi.
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According to him, the contribution has strengthened government revenue collection and spurred development in surrounding communities through the implementation of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) projects.
“Since the commencement of its operations, the mine has supported various development projects, including the construction of Vilima Vitatu Primary School, teachers’ houses, and is currently in the early stages of building a dormitory for a girls’ secondary school,” he said.
Commenting on domestic sales, he said that between December 16, 2023 and February 24, 2026, a total of 22,686 tonnes valued at 9.07bn/- were sold to Nala, Dodoma and from there the government collected 90.74m/- in royalties and an equivalent amount in inspection fees.
Regarding exports, he said 13 permits were issued to transport 47,243 tonnes of phosphate to Burundi, valued at 27.92bn/- and that between September 4, 2024, and February 24, 2026, the government collected 837.64m/- in royalties and 279.21m/- in inspection fees.
According to the Ministry of Minerals, Itracom Fertilizer Limited’s mine shows that the phosphate mining sector is a key driver of economic growth in the Manyara Region, increasing government revenue, creating jobs, and supporting community development.
He also urged Tanzanians to seize investment opportunities available in the region, noting that in addition to phosphate, Manyara Region is endowed with other minerals including gold, moonstone, green tourmaline, amethyst, green aventurine, limestone, azurite, salt, muscovite mica, feldspar and quartz crystal.