Government conducts SEA to clear uranium project operations

DODOMA: THE government is undertaking a Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) of the Mikumi-Selous Game Reserve ecosystem for the Mkuju River uranium mining project in Namtumbo District.

Deputy Minister for Minerals, Stephen Kiruswa, told the National Assembly yesterday that the SEA will ensure the project aligns with ecological and legal standards, clearing the way for mining operations.

“Currently, as Mantra Tanzania Limited has finalized preparations to commence mining, the government has already contracted a consultant to conduct this assessment. The consultant started work on November 3, 2024, and is expected to complete it within six months,” he said.

He said this in response to a basic question from Namtumbo MP Vita Kawawa, who inquired about the reasons for the delay in commencing the Mkuju-Namtumbo uranium project, despite it having already obtained a mining and construction license.

Responding, Deputy Minister for Minerals Steven Kiruswa said that a Special Mining License (SML) was granted to Mantra Tanzania Limited in 2013.

“However, following the issuance of the license, the global price of uranium declined, causing a delay in the project’s development. The company waited for the uranium price to recover, and now that it has, the company is ready to proceed with the project,” he said.

According to him, once the SEA report is finalized, it will enable this project, which is crucial for the nation’s economy and its people, to commence.

In a follow-up question, the legislator asked if, given the project’s long duration, the government could allow Mantra Company to proceed while the SEA process is ongoing.

Responding, the Deputy Minister said that the government cannot allow the project to proceed because the SEA process will not take long, only six months.

“I understand the company’s eagerness to proceed. However, the SEA process is crucial to ensure environmental sustainability. We will carefully consider their request and communicate our decision in due course,” Mr Kiruswa said

He added, “It is true that the global price of uranium has increased and it is a very valuable mineral. As a government, we have no reason to delay this project further beyond ensuring the safety of our environment, considering that this project is located near a game reserve,” Mr Kiruswa said.