Tanzania has discovered significant rare earth element (REEs) deposits in Mkiu Village, Ludewa District, Njombe Region, officials say.
The newly discovered minerals, mainly Neodymium (Nd) and Praseodymium (Pr), are among the world’s most valuable strategic minerals due to their increasing use in modern technologies such as electric vehicles, wind turbines, smartphones, electronics and renewable energy systems.
Officials say the discovery could position Tanzania among emerging producers of critical minerals in East Africa as the world accelerates its transition towards clean energy and advanced technologies.
ALSO READ:Tanzania Strengthens Climate Leadership
Speaking to journalists, Njombe Resident Mining Officer, Engineer Lucas Mlekwa, said the discovery was made during ongoing mineral exploration activities in the region.
He said” the exploration is being conducted through cooperation between the government and Hongji Mining Co. Ltd to establish the size and commercial viability of the deposits before large-scale investment begins”.
According to Mlekwa, Tanzania stands to benefit significantly from the rapidly expanding global market for rare earth minerals.
“We have high hopes that Tanzania will become one of the countries benefiting economically through trade in these minerals in regional and international markets,” he told reporters.
He noted that the discovery comes at a time when investment in clean energy technologies is increasing globally, driving demand for rare earth minerals.
“These minerals are highly valuable because they are essential in many modern technologies. This marks the beginning of a major economic opportunity for Njombe”.
Mlekwa stated that Hongji Mining Co. Ltd has completed the first phase of exploration and is now undertaking detailed assessments ahead of commercial production within the 280-square-kilometre project area.
Apart from the Njombe project, Tanzania is also home to the internationally recognised Ngualla Rare Earth Project in Songwe Region, considered one of the world’s largest undeveloped rare earth deposits.
AP
