Tanzania Starts Construction of TZS 14.3 Billion Mineral Testing Laboratory in Dodoma, the Largest in East and Central Africa

Tanzania has launched the construction of a modern mineral testing laboratory in Dodoma, which will be the largest of its kind in East and Central Africa.

The facility, located in Kizota, will cost TZS 14.3 billion and is scheduled to be completed within 690 days.

The foundation stone was laid on August 25, 2025, by the Minister of Minerals, Anthony Mavunde.

Mavunde said the laboratory will be equipped with modern technology and will enhance the delivery of accurate laboratory services for stakeholders in the mining sector.

“We thank President Samia Suluhu Hassan for being the driving force of reforms in the mining sector and for making history with the construction of this modern laboratory, 100 years after the establishment of the Geological Survey of Tanzania (GST) in 1925,” Mavunde stated.

He added that the new laboratory will provide stakeholders with accurate and timely laboratory information, which will accelerate the growth and development of the mining sector.

Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Geological Survey of Tanzania (GST), Dr. Notka Huruma Batenze, said the laboratory will facilitate access to reliable mineral testing services and contribute to the advancement of the sector.

Mineral Laboratory Capacity in Tanzania

Tanzania has several mineral testing laboratories, including those operated by the Geological Survey of Tanzania (GST) and the Mining Commission in Dar es Salaam.

Additional facilities include regional and private institutions such as the African Minerals and Geosciences Centre (AMGC), SGS, Bureau Veritas, Intertek, and Nesch Minte, offering commercial assay and analytical services to mining companies and exploration projects.

However, existing facilities are not sufficient to meet the growing demand of the sector. As a result, some companies still rely on overseas testing, which delays assay turnaround and increases costs.

The government has therefore embarked on a plan to expand laboratory capacity. Besides the Kizota facility in Dodoma, two other laboratories are planned, including one in Chunya, Mbeya.