The Tanzanian government is executing a comprehensive strategy to reposition Tanzanite in the global market, focusing on creating an international trading hub within Tanzania and empowering local miners. The initiative, driven by the Ministry of Minerals under Minister Anthony Mavunde, aims to restore the gemstone’s status, enhance its value, and ensure greater benefits for the national economy and local communities .
A Vision for a Global Trading Hub
A cornerstone of this strategy is the construction of the Tanzanite Exchange Centre (TEC) in Mirerani. Minister Mavunde confirmed the building is 98% complete and will serve as a dedicated international hub for the Tanzanite trade . The vision is to create a one-stop center where international buyers can access all necessary services, from banking to hospitality, thereby keeping more of the value chain within the country .
This effort aligns with a broader presidential vision. “President Samia wants to see ‘the gemstone trade system like Hong Kong and Dubai moving and coming here to Simanjiro,’” Mavunde stated, underscoring the government’s ambition to make Tanzania the epicenter of the African gemstone trade .
Empowering Local Miners and Ensuring Transparency
The government’s plan extends beyond infrastructure to directly support the miners who form the backbone of the sector. Key support measures include:
- Financial Access: The government is in talks with the Ministry of Finance to facilitate access to capital through guarantee funds. This initiative is designed to enable youth, women, and small-scale miners to strengthen their activities and invest in their operations .
- Direct Equipment Support: To immediately boost production capabilities, the government has purchased 15 mining machines to assist miners .
- Formalizing Trade: A key focus is on restoring gemstone auctions to increase transparency, competition, and ultimately, the value of Tanzanite and other gemstones sold within the country .
Part of a Broader Mining Renaissance 📈
The focus on Tanzanite is not an isolated effort but part of a larger, successful push to reform Tanzania’s mining sector. This has established the country as a model for resource-rich African nations . Under President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s administration, the government has prioritized the mining sector as a pillar of economic development, leading to significant growth and formalization .
The success of this approach is evident in the performance of small-scale miners nationally. Between 2021 and 2025, small-scale miners were instrumental in boosting gold production by nearly $1.5 billion, achieving 96% of the government’s targets and cementing mining as a key economic pillar . The government aims to replicate and extend this success to the gemstone sector through structured support programs .
The strategic elevation of Tanzanite, coupled with wider sectoral reforms, signals a new era for Tanzania’s mining industry. By focusing on value addition, transparency, and local empowerment, the government is ensuring that the country’s unique gemstone wealth translates into sustainable and inclusive national prosperity.
