DAR ES SALAAM, July 22 (Xinhua) -- With an estimated 139 million tonnes of uranium deposits and a projected mine life of 22 years, Tanzania is poised to secure its place among the top 10 global producers of uranium, said Minister for Minerals Anthony Mavunde on Tuesday.
Mavunde made the remarks during an inspection of a strategic uranium mining project in Namtumbo District, Ruvuma Region, which is expected to commence soon following the completion of a pilot uranium processing plant, according to a statement by the communications unit of the ministry.
"One of the priorities of the government is to add value to minerals within the country. President Samia Suluhu Hassan has given us specific directives to ensure this is achieved," said Mavunde.
"The launch of this project, which includes construction of a value-addition plant for uranium, is a clear demonstration of the government's commitment. The Ministry of Minerals will continue to oversee this initiative to ensure it benefits our nation," he added.
Highlighting the project's benefits, Mavunde noted it will create over 4,000 direct and more than 100,000 indirect jobs. ■
