By Lake Zone Watch Writer
The government has said it is hunting for people hiring armed youths at Nyamongo area in Tarime Distrct to invade and steal gold sand at Barrick Gold North Mara, which has often resulted in clashes with the police, injuries and even deaths.
Addressing a public rally at Nyamichele village, located near the North Mara Gold mine on Thursday, Minister for Home Affairs Hamad Yussuf Masauni said it is a long chain syndicate but the police will apprehend each of them.
“Our police force is tracking them down to ensure they capture all of them wherever they are. Some mineral dealers have no mines. Where do they get their merchandise?” Asked the minister.
“We are saddened when we see people getting killed but we also don’t want to see damage or grabbing of property belonging to an investor. We say no, to such misconduct,’’ said Masauni.
He said the government has instructed the police to abide by their profession when executing their duties, insisting that extra force should only be taken when necessary.
On his part, Minerals Minister Anthony Mavunde said the government is working on a special request from wananchi living in villages surrounding North Mara Gold mine, seeking to get spare land and modern equipment for small scale mining.
“We’ve already directed the gold mine, during a joint meeting, in which it was agreed that the areas reserved for artisanal miners will be licensed. I have also instructed STAMICO to conduct exploration so that mining is carried out with utmost expertise,’’ said Mavunde.
Mara Regional Commissioner Col. Evans Mtambi said it was the government’s wish to see there is improvement on social and economic wellbeing of its people.
“ Our region always takes measures to see that life improves step by step. This bad habit of invading the goldmine should stop now. There is bright future awaiting,” the RC said.
Ealier, wananchi made a request for the government to resolve the issue of compensation to those who decided to vacate in order to allow expansion of North Mara Gold mining activities.
They hinted the conflict was being exaggerated by some leaders for their selfish motives.
Councilor for Kemambo Ward, Bogomba Rashid said the current problems need a consensus between the government and wananchi, to avoid damages.
“The gold mine is a blessing to us. The only serious challenge we are facing is the lack of mining areas for the youth. The road infrastructure is unfriendly and there is no electricity,’’ said Bogomba.
North Mara Gold mine is owned by Barrick Gold Corporation in a partnership with the government of Tanzania, through Twiga Minerals.