The government of Tanzania and the Japan International Cooperation Agency have agreed to broaden their cooperation in the mining sector, with a new focus on research into critical and strategic minerals. The agreement reflects growing interest in securing reliable supplies of resources essential to clean energy technologies and advanced manufacturing.

The discussions were held in Dodoma, where officials reviewed ongoing projects and outlined new priority areas for funding supported through the government of Japan via JICA. The expanded cooperation is expected to strengthen Tanzania’s capacity in geological research and mineral development.

Global demand for minerals such as copper, graphite and rare earth elements has continued to rise, driven by electric vehicles, renewable energy systems and electronics manufacturing. African producers are increasingly seen as key players in diversifying global supply chains.

Tanzania officials said the partnership with JICA is aimed at improving technical expertise, expanding exploration work and strengthening institutional capacity across the mining sector.

Capacity building and skills transfer

Deputy Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Minerals, Msafiri Mbibo, said the cooperation has already contributed to skills development in the sector. He noted that more than 30 Tanzanian mining professionals have received training in Japan under JICA-supported programs.

He said the training has improved technical efficiency within the ministry and strengthened the country’s ability to manage exploration and regulatory responsibilities. The government, he added, sees human capital development as central to modernizing the mining industry.

Focus on strategic minerals research

JICA Resident Representative in Tanzania, Dr. Katsuyika Kuge, said the agency plans to expand cooperation beyond training to include targeted research on strategic minerals. These include copper, graphite, beryllium and heavy rare earth elements, which are increasingly important in global industrial supply chains.

He said initial research activities will concentrate on ferrous minerals and beryllium, in line with JICA’s development priorities. Kuge also highlighted the role of the ongoing Kizuna Project in supporting technical cooperation between the two sides.

Mining governance and investment outlook

Kuge said Tanzania has maintained steady progress in managing its mining sector and creating a more structured environment for technical partnerships and investment. He said this provides a foundation for longer-term research collaboration and knowledge sharing.

The expanded partnership reflects broader efforts across Africa to position the continent more firmly within global critical minerals supply networks, as governments and development agencies seek more stable and diversified sourcing options for key industrial materials.