MINISTER MAVUNDE INSPECTS CONSTRUCTION OF EIGHT-STOREY VALUE ADDITION TRAINING BUILDING FOR GEMSTONES.



▪️TSh 33 Billion earmarked for completion of twin tower building – TGC Arusha

▪️Gemstone trade to take place within the facility

▪️Strategic initiative for value addition in gemstone sector

▪️Artisanal miners in Arusha thank President Samia for modern infrastructure


Arusha, July 22, 2025 – The Minister for Minerals, Hon. Anthony Mavunde, today visited the construction site of a modern eight-storey building at the Tanzania Gemological Centre (TGC) in Arusha to inspect progress on a key project aimed at strengthening the country's mineral sector.


During the visit, Minister Mavunde was briefed by Engineer Julian Mosha from the contracting firm Skywards Lumocons Joint Venture and project supervisor Jumanne Nshimba from TGC. Once completed, the building is expected to serve as a national hub for gemstone identification, research, and training—contributing to the growth of the mineral value chain and economic development.


He noted that the building will include lecture halls, workshops, student hostels, a gemstone laboratory, and various administrative offices, with more than TSh 33 billion expected to be spent on the project.


Speaking to the media after the inspection, Minister Mavunde expressed satisfaction with the progress but urged the contractor to accelerate construction to ensure timely completion within the required quality standards.



“This is a strategic project for the future of Tanzania’s mineral sector. It will serve as a one-stop centre for gemstone business operations. We want to see this facility completed quickly so it can begin operations as intended. I urge the contractor to increase manpower, equipment, and efficiency to meet contractual deadlines,” said Minister Mavunde.


The project is being implemented under the supervision of the Ministry of Minerals in collaboration with TGC. Upon completion, the facility will enhance national capacity for mineral analysis, provide professional training, and create employment for Tanzanian youth skilled in geology and gemology.


Minister Mavunde reiterated the commitment of the Sixth Phase Government under the leadership of President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan to strengthening scientific and technological infrastructure to promote the optimal use of mineral resources and position Tanzania as a hub for mineral trade and value addition in Africa.


Speaking during the visit, Alfred Mwaswenya, Chairperson of Artisanal Miners in Arusha (AREMA), and Jeremia Kituyo, Chairperson of Mineral Traders (CHAMATA), both thanked President Samia for the government’s decision to build the facility. They noted that it will equip Tanzanians with skills for gemstone processing and facilitate trade by bringing together key players under one roof.


Arusha Regional Commissioner Hon. Kenani Kihongosi also applauded the Ministry of Minerals for the construction of the modern eight-storey building, stating that it will boost gemstone trade in the region and enhance the local economy.


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