By Our Correspondent – Same, Kilimanjaro
Deputy Minister for Minerals, Dr Steven Kiruswa, has said that the government, through the Ministry of Minerals, plans to convene a stakeholders’ meeting in Dodoma in the coming days to deliberate on challenges affecting gypsum mining and trade.
Dr Kiruswa said the meeting will bring together small-scale gypsum miners, transporters, cement factory owners, as well as district and Same District Council leaders, with the aim of finding lasting solutions to the challenges that have slowed down socio-economic development among communities dependent on the sector.
He made the remarks yesterday, December 12, 2025, during his inspection tour of gypsum mining activities in Makanye and Ruvu Jeungeni wards in Same District, Kilimanjaro Region, where he also held discussions with small-scale gypsum miners.
The Deputy Minister stressed that the purchase of gypsum below the indicative prices set by the Mining Commission is strictly prohibited, urging all stakeholders to adhere to the established guidelines in order to protect the interests of small-scale miners.
On environmental protection, Dr Kiruswa called on miners to ensure proper environmental management, including refilling pits after completion of mining activities. He also commended the establishment of a special fund aimed at supporting environmental restoration once mining operations come to an end, noting that the initiative will enhance accountability and sustainability in mining activities within the district.
In another development, Dr Kiruswa reiterated the importance of providing MBT training to youth and women, facilitating access to mining licences, and ensuring the availability of modern equipment to improve efficiency and safety in small-scale gypsum mining. He further encouraged young people to seize opportunities available across the entire minerals value chain.
Meanwhile, Same District Commissioner, Ms Kasilda Mgeni, said gypsum mining remains the backbone of economic development for residents and the Same District Council. She noted that the ongoing dispute between small-scale miners and cement factory owners has negatively affected development in the area, adding that the government is committed to ensuring the sector benefits all stakeholders.
On his part, Kilimanjaro Regional Resident Mining Officer, Engineer Abel Madaha, said the Mining Commission, in collaboration with other government institutions and mining stakeholders, has been holding regular meetings aimed at addressing challenges faced by miners from the production stage to end users.
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