By Business Insider Reporter, Mbeya
Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa has said that the launch of the country’s first modern copper leaching plant is a clear demonstration of President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan’s unwavering commitment to developing and overseeing Tanzania’s mining sector.
Speaking on behalf of President Samia during the inauguration of the Mineral Access Systems Tanzania Ltd (MAST) plant in Mbugani Ward, Chunya District, the Prime Minister said the facility – capable of processing 31,200 tonnes of copper ore per month – will bring significant benefits to the people of Chunya and to the nation at large.
“President Samia’s bold leadership and innovation have played a key role in the progress made in the mining sector. These investors have come because of the attractive investment environment she has helped to foster,” Majaliwa stated.
He also called on the Ministry of Minerals and relevant national institutions to continue overseeing investor activities to ensure compliance with national laws, regulations and procedures, including environmental protection, tax obligations, and safety measures.
“Ensure investors uphold the safety of their employees and nearby communities. Investors and plant owners must also comply with environmental laws and work in close collaboration with local authorities at the village, district, and council levels,” he stressed.
Majaliwa further urged companies to prioritise employment opportunities for local residents, including both skilled and unskilled labour.
“We’ve been informed that the plant has already hired around 200 young people, but many more come daily seeking opportunities. We expect to see even more Chunya youth working here.”
Supporting National Policy
Deputy Minister of Minerals, Dr. Steven Kiruswa, noted that the plant’s construction aligns with the country’s mineral policy and legislation, which mandates that Tanzania’s minerals must be mined, processed, and value-added locally before export to maximise economic benefits.
“The MAST plant is one of nine planned facilities aimed at adding value to minerals before they are sold abroad. While it hasn’t yet reached the stage of producing finished products, it plans to manufacture copper for electric wires and vehicle components,” said Dr Kiruswa.
He added that such efforts are part of Tanzania’s broader strategy to become a regional hub for mineral processing in Africa, thereby shifting from exporting raw minerals to selling value-added products.
Investor perspective
Dr Glendon Archer, President and CEO of MAST, described the plant as the beginning of a wider investment in mining and mineral development in Tanzania.
“We will continue working closely with the Tanzanian Government. The cooperation we’ve received from leaders has been exceptional, which is why we are here today,” said Dr. Archer.
He added that the company plans to construct additional plants in Dodoma and Arusha, deepening its long-term commitment to the country. The Chunya plant represents an investment of over USD 10 million, underscoring growing investor confidence in Tanzania’s mining sector under President Samia’s leadership.
