By Selim Kaymak
Tanzania’s recent strides in the mining sector, under the visionary leadership of President Samia Suluhu Hassan, have set a new standard for the African continent and beyond.
The launch of a comprehensive development strategy for the mining industry marks a pivotal moment, one that aligns perfectly with my commitment to responsible and sustainable mining practices.
The Tanzanian government’s initiative, which includes the development of a critical mineral policy and a focus on rare earth minerals such as graphite, lithium, nickel, and neodymium, is a testament to the country’s forward-thinking approach.
This strategy not only aims to ensure supply reliability and promote exploration but also emphasizes the importance of beneficiation—unlocking the full value of Tanzania’s mineral wealth.
As the permanent secretary of Tanzania’s Ministry of Minerals, Kheri Mahimbali, highlighted, the economic impact of this approach is undeniable.
With the mining sector contributing approximately 10 percent to the country’s gross domestic product (GDP) in 2023 and accounting for nearly 60 percent of foreign exchange earnings, the benefits of responsible mining are clear for all to see.
Fostering innovation and sustainability
The Tanzanian government’s commitment to fostering sustainable and responsible mining practices resonates deeply with my own philosophy. The emphasis on exploration and innovation is crucial, as it allows us to harness the latest technologies and methodologies to minimise our environmental footprint while maximising the socio-economic benefits for local communities.
The substantial investments attracted by these responsible practices—over $2 billion in new investments, with additional commitments exceeding $1 billion—underscore the global confidence in Tanzania’s mining sector. These investments, particularly in critical and rare earth minerals, are not just about capital; they represent a shared belief in the potential of Tanzania’s resources and its people.
At my company, Alpha Resources, we are inspired by Tanzania’s ambitious vision and are committed to being an integral part of this journey. Our investments in the country are guided by a deep respect for the environment and a commitment to the well-being of Tanzanian communities.
I believe that mining should be a catalyst for sustainable development, providing not just economic benefits but also contributing to the social and environmental fabric of the host country.
Our approach is collaborative, working closely with the Tanzanian government, local communities, and other stakeholders to ensure that our mining activities are in harmony with national development goals and community aspirations. This includes investing in local infrastructure, education, and healthcare, as well as ensuring that our operations are transparent, ethical, and aligned with the best international practices.
The path Tanzania is on offers a blueprint for the future of mining in Africa and beyond. It is a call to action for industry leaders, policymakers, and communities to come together in pursuit of a common goal: mining that benefits all, without compromising the needs of future generations.
Selim Kaymak is a founder and CEO of Alpha Resources and Investments (Pty) which is based in South Africa. He can be reached through [email protected]
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Tanzania: Samia Hands Over NBC’s 354m/ – Crop Insurance Compensation to Farmers Affected By Hailstorms
President Samia Suluhu Hassan, has handed over a cheque of 354m/- from the National Bank of Commerce (NBC) as compensation to tobacco farmers, who were affected by hailstorms during the previous farming season in various regions across the country.
Handing over the cheque in Dodoma, the compensation is part of the crop insurance service provided by NBC in collaboration with the National Insurance Corporation (NIC).
Furthermore, President Samia has also handed over health insurance coverage to members of the Lindi Mwambao Cooperative Union based in Lindi Region, through the Farmers’ Health Insurance service provided by the bank in partnership with Assurance Insurance Company.
While visiting the bank’s pavilion at the Nanenane Agricultural Exhibition and being received and briefed by the bank’s Managing Director, Mr. Theobald Sabi, she said: “This crop insurance is one of the crucial solutions in ensuring farmers have a reliable income, without fear of challenges such as natural disasters, including hailstorms.
“I call upon all farmers in the country to make the best use of this important opportunity by accessing these kinds of insurance services. I also highly commend NBC and all the stakeholders participating in this programme.”
Elaborating further on the crop insurance service, the Minister of Agriculture, Hussein Bashe, stated that it will help to recover the loss farmers incurred, especially in various calamities beyond their control.
Citing them as floods, fires, and hailstorms, which have significantly affected the well-being of farmers and caused some to be reluctant to invest in the crucial sector, Mr Bashe added: “However, our President, this step by NBC is just the beginning, as this is the second year since they started offering this service, and the results are already visible.
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“As the government, we promise to continue supporting the wider implementation of this service, with the goal of ensuring that this crop insurance service reaches more farmers.”
ALSO READ: NBC participates in TFF 2023/24 awards, promises to enhance competition
On his part, Mr Sabi said that the farmers who benefited from the compensations are from 23 primary cooperative unions in the regions of Shinyanga, Geita, Tabora, Mbeya, Katavi, and Kigoma.
He added: “In addition to these insurance services, as a bank, through this exhibition, we have continued with our programme of providing financial education and various banking opportunities to farmers, alongside offering them various loans, including loans for agricultural equipment, particularly tractors, to eligible farmers.:
At the NBC booth, President Samia also had the opportunity to be briefed on the various services offered by the bank to the farmers namely crop insurance and health insurance services.
There, the President had the chance to speak with some of the beneficiaries of the services, including the Vice-Chairman of the Lindi Mwambao Primary Cooperative Union, Mr. Hassan Mnumbe, whose union has been provided with a health insurance card from the bank.
Source: allafrica.com
Tanzania: Exim to Raise Fund for Mental Health Facilities Upgrades
EXIM Bank to raise 300m/- over the next three years for financing essential services and infrastructure upgrades in mental health facilities.
The bank’s Head of Marketing and Communications Stanley Kafu unveiled this when introducing Exim Bima Festival 2024 as a platform for bringing together individuals, organisations and various sectors for raising the funds.
“Exim’s initiative aligns with the government’s broader goals to ensure that every citizen has access to quality healthcare, including mental health services,” he said.
The initiative, which is one of the events for celebrating the bank’s 27th anniversary is scheduled for Wednesday this week in Dar es Salaam.
Mr Kafu highlights that this year’s festival is not only about raising awareness of the importance of insurance in the society but also focuses on enhancing access to mental health services and improving the overall well-being of the nation.
Statistics from the Ministry of Health shows a staggering 82 per cent increase in mental health cases over the past decade.
Mental cases have risen from 386,358 in 2012 to 2,102,726 in 2021, making the need for mental health services more urgent than ever.
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Unfortunately, the country’s ability to address this growing challenge is hindered by a shortage of mental health professionals, infrastructure, medical equipment and essential medication.
For example, out of the 28 regions in the country, only five have facilities that provide adequate mental health services.
The most affected group is the youth aged 15 to 39, who represent the nation’s workforce, underscoring the need for intensified efforts to safeguard this generation for Tanzania’s future well-being and development.
Mr Kafu said by improving mental health services, Exim aims to contribute to the creation of a network of communities that can access care quickly and affordably.
Exim Insurance Department Manager Tike Mwakyoma said they are appreciating the support from partners in the insurance industry, who have stood by them since the last festival.
“Let’s continue this unity for the development of all Tanzanians and our nation as a whole,” the manager said.
Source: allafrica.com
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