Tanzania Partners with South Korea to Construct a TZS 27 Billion Mineral Research Laboratory

On 20th August 2024, The University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM) signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Yulho, a South Korean company, to construct a state-of-the-art mineral research laboratory.

The project is expected to cost approximately TZS 27 billion and will feature advanced equipment aimed at enhancing mineral research capabilities in Tanzania.

During the MOU signing ceremony, UDSM Vice Chancellor Prof. William A. L. Anangisye emphasized the importance of the new laboratory as a milestone for extensive mineral research.

He stated that this initiative aligns with Tanzania’s broader goals of boosting the mineral sector, which has seen a surge in exploration projects aimed at unlocking the country’s rich mineral resources.

“The establishment of this laboratory will not only contribute to academic research but will also play a crucial role in supporting the mining industry and enhancing the socio-economic development of our nation,” Prof. Anangisye remarked.

For his part, Dr. Abubakary Salama, Acting Dean of the School of Mines and Geosciences (SoMG) at UDSM, highlighted that the laboratory will initially focus on experiments with two types of minerals.

He noted that this facility is set to become one of the largest mineral research laboratories in the region, capable of conducting comprehensive experiments across various mineral types.

This partnership follows the MOU signed between Tanzania’s State Mining Corporation (STAMICO) and Korea’s Mine Rehabilitation and Mineral Resources Corporation (KOMIR) in June 2024 to develop strategic mineral resources in Tanzania and exchange expertise.

The UDSM laboratory is expected to complement these efforts by providing essential research and development support, ultimately contributing to the sustainable management of the country’s mineral resources.