The Tanzanian government intercepted a shipment of gold worth 1.345 TSh billion, which they tried to illegally export from the country. This was the next step in a campaign to curb the smuggling of minerals and protect Tanzania's mining revenues.
The gold was seized during an operation conducted by the Tanzanian police, the Mining Commission, security agencies and the anti-smuggling task force. Speaking to media representatives in the Kagera region, Dr. Stephen Kiruswa, Deputy Minister of Mining, said that the inspection and evaluation of the seized valuables confirmed that the shipment consisted of 163 gold bars with a total weight of 4434.66 grams.
The Government has strengthened monitoring systems and cooperation between relevant authorities to identify and prevent illegal trade in minerals, warning that those involved in smuggling activities will be held accountable. «Some people continue to try to bypass official channels, but the government remains committed to protecting the country's mineral resources and ensuring that the sector benefits Tanzanians», the deputy minister said. The Government will continue to strengthen oversight of the mining sector and work with security agencies to combat smuggling, which deprives the country of income and undermines legitimate business.
Between July 2025 and March 2026, the government seized minerals worth 3.31 TSh billion in 55 separate incidents across the country. He called on prospectors, dealers, brokers, and the public to use official markets and purchasing centers set up across the country to conduct business safely and legally. The Deputy Minister said that more than 40 official markets and procurement centers have been established in Tanzania, which provide a secure platform for trading minerals, while ensuring that the state receives adequate revenues from the industry. He called on mining industry participants to cooperate with the authorities by reporting illegal activities, stressing that responsible trade in minerals is essential for sustainable development and economic growth.
