ARUSHA: TANZANIA’S mining sector reforms are set to reach new heights following the commencement of construction of a long-awaited national training centre for gemstone value addition.
The project, launched at the Tanzania Gemological Centre (TGC) in Arusha, marks a major milestone in the Government’s efforts to ensure gemstones are processed locally rather than exported in raw form.
Inspecting the project over the weekend, Minister for Minerals, Mr Anthony Mavunde, directed the contractor to increase manpower and introduce extended working shifts to ensure the facility is completed within the agreed timeframe and to the highest quality standards.
Mr Mavunde said the investment reflects the strong commitment of the Sixth Phase Government under President Samia Suluhu Hassan to strengthen the entire gemstone value chain, in line with the 2009 Mineral Policy.
He said the policy places clear emphasis on domestic cutting, polishing and grading in order to retain more value within the country.
He noted that the commencement of construction is a direct implementation of President Samia’s directives to the 13th Parliament in Dodoma, where she called for deeper value addition in the mining sector and the deliberate development of local technical expertise.
Once completed, the training centre is expected to significantly expand enrolment capacity at TGC, produce a larger pool of skilled gemstone specialists and create new employment opportunities for young people and traders in the gemstone industry.
By reducing the export of unprocessed stones, the project is also expected to boost national revenue and enhance Tanzania’s competitiveness in the global gemstone market.
Arusha District Commissioner Mr Joseph Mkude pledged to closely supervise the progress of the project to ensure it is delivered in line with government expectations.
He described the centre as one of the largest public investments in the region’s mining sector, noting that it will further strengthen Arusha’s position as a key hub for gemstone trade, training and related services.
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Providing details of the project, TGC Director Eng Ally Maganga said it involves the construction of two eight-storey twin blocks at an estimated cost of 33bn/-.
He said the expanded facilities will enable many more young Tanzanians to acquire practical skills in gemstone cutting, polishing and grading, thereby improving their competitiveness in both regional and international markets.
Project Manager Eng Robert Lubuva said contractors are mobilising additional personnel and equipment in line with the minister’s instructions to ensure the project is completed on time and begins serving Tanzanians as planned.
The new training centre forms part of a broader government agenda to transform the mining sector into a catalyst for skills development, job creation and industrial growth.
By investing in modern training infrastructure for gemstone value addition, the Government is laying the foundation for a more inclusive and sophisticated mineral economy that converts Tanzania’s natural wealth into sustainable national development.