Mining Companies’ CSR Projects Benefit Simiyu Residents
📍Simiyu
The government has reaffirmed its commitment to closely monitor the implementation of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) projects carried out by mining companies across the country to ensure that communities living near mining sites directly benefit from mining activities.
Simiyu Regional Mining Officer, Mayigi Makolobela, made the remarks recently during an inspection tour of CSR projects implemented by various mining companies in the region. He noted that these initiatives have significantly improved social services, including education, health, and access to electricity.
“The government recognizes the significant contribution of the mining sector in boosting the national economy and improving people’s livelihoods. That’s why we emphasize that all mining companies—including those owned by small-scale miners—must fulfill their social responsibilities through CSR projects so that surrounding communities benefit directly from the available resources,” said Makolobela.
On his part, Masanga Silanga, Director of EMJ Mining Company located in Dutwa, Simiyu Region, said the company is engaged in gold mining in partnership with investors from China, a collaboration that has enhanced efficiency and technology in their operations.
He stated that the company produces an average of 10 kilograms of gold per month, depending on the availability of gold-bearing rocks (ore). However, operations are sometimes affected by limited ore supply in areas with narrow gold veins.
Silanga added that the company has implemented several CSR projects, including donating 50 desks and 2,000 bricks to Dutwa Primary School, providing printers and photocopy machines to educational institutions, and contributing 2,000 bricks to Nguno Hospital.
“So far, we have invested over USD 50,000 in CSR projects, including a power extension project connecting Dutwa to nearby villages that previously had no access to electricity,” Silanga explained.
Meanwhile, the company’s manager, Noah Wang, said their main challenge at the moment is the shortage of ore, which has led to reduced production and occasional shutdown of some processing plants.
“Our machines can process up to 500 tons of ore per day, but currently we’re not reaching that capacity, forcing us to shut down some of the equipment intermittently. At the moment, only one shaft is operational, resulting in a significant drop in production,” Wang stated.
He further mentioned that the company employs a total of 48 workers, including 30 Tanzanians and 18 Chinese nationals, who work on a shift system basis.


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