Rukwa Region is rapidly positioning itself as an international hub for mineral trade, driven by its vast natural resource wealth, improved infrastructure, enhanced security, and a business-friendly regulatory framework. These developments have made the region one of the country’s leading destinations for both local and foreign investors.
Speaking on December 4, 2025, the Rukwa Regional Mining Officer, Engineer Joseph Kumburu, said that the Government has created an enabling environment to boost investment through major reforms in licensing, mineral market management, and the strengthening of transport systems for moving products within and outside the country.
He emphasized that Rukwa is now gaining global recognition due to its diverse mineral deposits and the Government’s efforts to enhance good governance and reduce bureaucracy in the investment process.
According to Engineer Kumburu, more than 480 mining licenses have already been issued in Rukwa Region, while over 600 new applications are being processed through the Mineral Commission’s digital systems — a shift that has increased transparency and efficiency. Statistics show that in the 2024/2025 financial year, a total of 337.6 tonnes of various minerals were sold through official markets and trading centers in Rukwa, valued at over TSh 264 million, with the Government collecting more than TSh 18 million through royalties, inspection fees, and export permits.
Furthermore, the office collected TSh 656.2 million, equivalent to 87.5% of its annual revenue target for the 2024/2025 financial year.
Rukwa boasts a wide range of minerals including gold, copper, coal, industrial minerals, gemstones, and strategic minerals such as helium and rare earth elements. Geographically, the region enjoys a unique advantage due to its borders with Zambia and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), as well as access to Lake Tanganyika Port, which facilitates international trade and the movement of mining equipment.
For small-scale miners, the Government is continuing to allocate and survey more than 13,000 hectares to support artisanal mining activities, with the potential to issue over 700 licenses.
The rising demand for construction materials driven by strategic national projects has also opened the door for investors to establish plants for producing aggregates, sand, gravel, and stones.
Engineer Kumburu noted that the region aims to strengthen mineral markets, explore new domestic and international markets, link miners with financial institutions, and enhance security and the use of technology to combat mineral smuggling.
He said the Government has invested significantly in enhancing transparency across the mineral value chain to attract investors and safeguard national interests.
Engineer Kumburu also encouraged the youth of Rukwa and neighbouring regions to take advantage of these emerging opportunities, especially in the newly opened areas designated by the Government.
He further revealed that Rukwa is developing a plan to establish a major Copper Industrial Park in Nkasi District, with ongoing discussions between regional leaders and Chinese investors who recently visited and confirmed the availability of copper deposits in Rukwa and surrounding regions.
“Rukwa is open for business, and this is the right moment for investors to seize these opportunities. The investment environment has been greatly improved, and the resources are abundant. We welcome all investors for the benefit of Rukwa and the nation at large,” he said.
Overall, Rukwa continues to climb the ranks on Tanzania’s investment map, emerging as a strategic hub for business, technology, and sustainable mineral extraction. With robust governance systems and diverse opportunities, the region stands out as a premier destination for investors seeking a secure and profitable environment.
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