Mining and economic reforms in Tanzania and Malawi

Tanzania is implementing measures to expand its mining sector, specifically focusing on Tanzanite production in the Mererani area. Minister of Minerals Anthony Mavunde has ordered enhanced research into deposits to discover new reserves as existing sites face depletion. To support this, the government is allocating 10 percent of mineral sector revenues toward geological research and the adoption of modern technologies.

In addition to research, the Tanzanian government is introducing specialized technological helmets to improve safety and combat mineral theft. Recent developments show an intensification of oversight, with the Mining Commission issuing 30-day notices to 42 non-operational small-scale mining projects, warning of potential legal action. Furthermore, the government has directed Geological Survey Tanzania to provide improved geological data to small-scale miners and expand exploration coverage. While maintaining environmental safeguards through agencies like the Tanzania Forest Services Agency, the government affirmed that mining permits will continue to be issued in protected areas provided they comply with statutory requirements.

In Malawi, efforts to increase the mining sector’s contribution to GDP—targeting 10–15% by 2030—continue through legal reforms and the attraction of foreign investment in critical minerals such as graphite and rare earth elements. These mining objectives are part of a broader strategic shift to transform the agricultural sector from production-focused to commercially-driven to meet the ‘Malawi 2063’ vision. This economic transition includes increasing value addition and exports, supported by renewed interest from Japanese firms in Malawi’s agriculture, manufacturing, and processing sectors.