The Ministry of Minerals in Tanzania has issued a directive to small-scale miners, mine owners, managers, and inspectors to take immediate action to prepare for heavy rains expected between October and December. This directive was issued by Permanent Secretary Yahya Samamba on September 28, 2026, during the opening of training for small-scale miners in Kahama, Shinyanga Region. The training focuses on preparedness for the rainy season.
The directive follows a forecast by the Tanzania Meteorological Authority indicating the possibility of above-average rainfall during the period. Mr. Samamba emphasized that heavy rains could affect mining operations and pose risks to workers, infrastructure, and the environment if appropriate precautions are not taken. He stressed the importance of improving safety procedures to reflect the expected heavy rains.
Mine owners, managers, and inspectors have been directed to intensify inspections of mining pits and tailings storage facilities and ensure every mine has a clear and workable emergency response plan. They are also required to ensure that no one enters or works underground during heavy rains or immediately afterwards if conditions are unsafe. Daily inspections of mining pits before work begins are mandatory, with weak sections reinforced using appropriate timber or steel supports.
The Ministry has also ordered the construction and regular clearing of drainage channels around mine entrances and working areas to prevent surface water from entering mines. Mine operators are required to have water pumps and sufficient fuel to enable rapid response if water accumulates in the pits. These measures aim to mitigate the risks associated with heavy rains.
On tailings storage facilities, operators have been directed to ensure they have sufficient capacity and structural integrity to accommodate increased water levels during heavy rains. Inspections should cover embankments, drainage systems, water levels, signs of leakage, and erosion, with defects posing safety risks addressed promptly. Compliance with safety procedures during blasting is also stressed.
Regional Resident Mining Officers have been tasked with overseeing the implementation of the measures and the 2010 Mining Regulations on Safety, Health, and Environmental Protection. They are also required to take action where violations are identified. Mining associations have been called upon to educate their members and encourage miners to use official weather information when planning their activities.
The training, which aims to equip small-scale miners with practical knowledge on managing risks associated with heavy rains, covers topics such as mine safety, tailings storage facilities, waste rock storage, flood control, and emergency preparedness. The Tanzania Association of Mine Inspectors has requested the Government to facilitate access to heavy-duty pumps and other emergency equipment to support small-scale miners.
Key points
- The Ministry of Minerals has directed small-scale miners to take immediate measures to prepare for heavy rains expected between October and December.
- The directive follows a forecast by the Tanzania Meteorological Authority indicating the possibility of above-average rainfall during the period.
- The training aims to equip small-scale miners with practical knowledge on managing risks associated with heavy rains.
