Tanzania: Magufuli orders Chunya District officials to construct gold exchange centre to curb smuggling
What you need to know:
Despite being the second largest gold-producing district, Chunya still contributes a paltry sum of revenue to the national coffers
Dar es Salaam. President John Magufuli has issued a seven-day ultimatum to the Ministry of Minerals and local government authorities in Mbeya Region to establish a gold exchange centre in Chunya district.
This follows revelations that the government get so little revenue from mining activities despite the fact that the district is ranked as the second largest gold-producer in the country.
The construction of the gold exchange centre would reduce smuggling of gold President Magufuli said, directing the authorities to use any public building for now as a temporary gold market.
"Availability of reliable local markets will boost gold business in the country," stated President Magufuli.
The Head of State issued the directive when he addressed a public rally at Sabasaba grounds during his official tour of Chunya District in Mbeya region on Saturday, April 27.
President Magufuli also launched the construction of 72-kilometre Chunya-Makongolosi-Mbeya road. The construction of the road wuld cost Sh39.997 billion.
