When President Samia Suluhu Hassan launched the pilot uranium processing plant at the Mkuju River Project in Namtumbo District on July 30, 2025, Tanzania effectively joined the league of major uranium producers in Africa and beyond. The country boasts substantial uranium reserves, with approximately 182 million tonnes confirmed in the Mkuju River area, of which 139 million tonnes are considered economically recoverable—offering a mine life of more than 20 years.
If managed responsibly, the US$1.2 billion Mkuju River uranium project could be transformative for Tanzania—boosting economic growth, creating jobs, advancing infrastructure, and positioning the country as a key player in the global nuclear fuel market. This project marks a significant shift from previous African resource ventures, which often mirrored the colonial model of resource extraction and export without value addition.
Africa’s largest uranium producers—Namibia, Niger, and South Africa—currently process uranium only up to the yellowcake stage.
The project has been well negotiated. The pilot processing plant, now operational, aims to gather crucial operational data to guide the design of a full-scale processing complex capable of producing up to 3,000 tonnes of uranium annually. Construction of the main facility is expected to begin in early 2026, with commissioning anticipated by 2029. In addition to value addition, Tanzania has secured a 20% stake in the venture. Other projected benefits include an annual dividend of US$40 million, US$1.01 million in corporate tax, and US$20.8 million in licence fees, among others.
However, the real strategic value of the project lies not in immediate revenue but in technological sovereignty. Tanzania has secured 90 scholarships for young Tanzanians to study uranium technology in Russia. Within a decade, this will enable the country to develop the capability to extract and process uranium independently—knowledge that will prove invaluable when exploiting known deposits in areas such as Bahi, Manyoni, and Simanjiro.
As the nation celebrates the potential benefits, it is imperative to ensure that the project is managed responsibly. Firstly, operations must comply with international best practices, particularly the International Atomic Energy Agency’s (IAEA) Safety Standards for uranium mining and milling.
Secondly, community welfare must be prioritised. This includes access to regular medical screenings for radiation exposure, clean drinking water, and comprehensive health education programmes.
Finally, effective safeguards require robust institutions.
The National Environment Management Council (NEMC) and the Tanzania Atomic Energy Commission (TAEC) must be adequately resourced to conduct inspections, enforce standards, and impose penalties for non-compliance. Regular audits by independent experts will provide further assurance to stakeholders.
In conclusion, the Mkuju River uranium project presents Tanzania with a rare opportunity to harness its resources for sustainable development. By embedding stringent environmental protections, prioritising community well-being and ensuring strong regulatory oversight, the nation can minimise risks while maximising the project’s contribution to long-term prosperity.
Elly Manjale is an economic, business and management consultant based in Arusha who writes on economic, business, social and political issues
Email: emanjale@gmail.com
