By Business Insider Correspondent, Ruvuma
The Vice President’s Office has commenced implementation of directives issued by the President Dr Samia Suluhu Hassan, concerning environmental protection and conservation at the Mkuju River Project in Namtumbo District, Ruvuma Region.
During a recent tour of the region, the Permanent Secretary in the Vice President’s Office, Engineer Cyprian Luhemeja, confirmed that the visit followed instructions given by President Samia on June 30, 2025, when she inaugurated the pilot uranium processing plant at the site.
“This visit follows a directive from the President during the launch of this plant. She instructed the Vice President’s Office to immediately assess the environmental measures in place, as this is a uranium processing facility, and we must ensure the project does not harm the environment,” said Luhemeja.
“We have come here not only to assess but also to learn, because this is a new undertaking for Tanzania – our first uranium plant – so it is essential to understand how to ensure effective environmental management,” he added.
Mr. Luhemeja further noted that President Samia had also directed officials to travel to Namibia to learn from the country’s experience in uranium operations and environmental management.
He commended the investor’s efforts to safeguard the environment through the establishment of proper environmental management systems, the deployment of qualified experts, and adherence to regulatory requirements.
For his part, Namtumbo District Commissioner, Ngollo Malenya, described the project as a major opportunity for the local population, saying it would boost the economic wellbeing of many residents.
“Looking at its contribution to the national economy, this project is set to play a significant role. It will be a catalyst for development, and I urge our citizens to embrace the opportunities that come with it,” he said.
He added that hosting such a project was a source of great pride not only for the people of Namtumbo but for the entire nation, as it will have broad-reaching impacts, including employment opportunities for young people.
Meanwhile, Engineer Boniphace Guni, Manager at the National Environment Management Council (NEMC), observed that the investor had made substantial efforts to ensure robust environmental systems are in place.
The project manager, Mr. Beria Vorster, expressed his gratitude to the government for its continued support in facilitating the successful implementation of the uranium project, in collaboration with Tanzanian experts. “We are doing our best to follow all the required procedures, especially those relating to environmental protection and conservation. This is a top priority for our project, which is why we have environmental specialists overseeing the entire process,” said Mr Vorster.
