Two firms under review for Engaruka soda ash partnership

DODOMA: PLANS to finalise the long-awaited Engaruka Soda Ash Project are progressing with the government currently vetting two companies that submitted bids to partner with the National Development Corporation (NDC). This was revealed in the National Assembly by the Deputy Minister for Industry and Trade, Mr Exaud Kigahe, in response to a question from Special …

DODOMA: PLANS to finalise the long-awaited Engaruka Soda Ash Project are progressing with the government currently vetting two companies that submitted bids to partner with the National Development Corporation (NDC).

This was revealed in the National Assembly by the Deputy Minister for Industry and Trade, Mr Exaud Kigahe, in response to a question from Special Seats MP, Zaytun Swai (CCM) who sought to understand the government’s strategy for ensuring the project’s completion.

According to Deputy Minister Kigahe, the government initiated its project implementation strategy with a public announcement on December 30, 2024, which attracted interest from 28 local and international companies.

“By the bid closing date of February 24, 2025, two companies had formally submitted proposals to collaborate with the NDC on the project,” he said Mr Kigahe said the current stage involves a thorough due diligence process of the two companies. Should they meet the required criteria, they will be awarded the contract to execute the project in partnership with the NDC.

“The anticipated timeline, following the award and signing of contracts, projects the commencement of project implementation within 18 months,” he said.

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Deputy Minister Kigahe detailed the significant groundwork has already been completed for the project.

He said the steps include public awareness campaigns, preliminary and detailed surveys of the soda ash deposits involving the drilling of 16 exploration wells.

Others are a comprehensive feasibility study, an environmental and social impact assessment (ESIA), valuation and compensation of affected citizens amounting to 5.89bn/-, payment of a license fee of 408.78mil/-, and the public tender aimed at attracting a competent investor.

Furthermore, he said the government is actively pursuing the completion of essential infrastructure, including roads, water supply, and electricity, to facilitate the smooth execution of the Engaruka Soda Ash Project.

The successful completion of this project is expected to significantly contribute to the national economy and potentially boost the availability of soda ash, a key ingredient in various industries, including food processing, according to the Deputy Minister.