Investigation into the award of mining licences

Dodoma, Tanzania — 05 September 2013 – Allegations against district mining authorities in Tanzania for favouring potential foreign investors and looking down on local small-scale miners have prompted government reaction for a serious redress of the situation.

Deputy minister for energy and minerals George Simbachawene told parliament in Dar es Salaam that thorough investigations should be conducted to expose the alleged corrupt elements, reports allAfrica.com.

The directive followed demands in parliament for an explanation for the difficulties experienced by local miners when applying for mining licences, compared to foreigners who were awarded and received licences promptly.

“Licences for mining are issued in accordance with Mining Act of 2010 which also takes into consideration other legislations like the Land Act Number 2 of 2004, the Environmental Conservation Act, and the Water Resources Act which should provide the guideline when applying for mining licences,” Simbachawene explained.

He said the Ministry of Energy and Minerals has opened offices in different districts with the aim to improve communication and cooperation between the government and local government authorities. “More offices will be opened in places lacking the facilities,” he assured.

The Mining Act of 2010 requires all applicants, both small and large, to present to the minister the entire compensation and resettlement plan of the displaced residents to pave way for mining activities,” he clarified.

He said effective communication between the central government and local authorities would enhance authorisation of mining activities after compensation was accomplished.

Source: allAfrica.com. For more information, click here.