In a historic milestone for Tanzania’s extractive industry, the country proudly hosted the 62nd Global Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI) Board Meeting from March 12 to 14, 2025. This prestigious event in Arusha marked a significant step forward in Tanzania’s journey toward becoming a global leader in transparency, accountability, and sustainable mining practices. The meeting brought together key stakeholders from governments, civil society, and the private sector to discuss critical issues facing the extractive industries and reinforce responsible resource management’s importance.
The opportunity to host the EITI Board Meeting was secured following high-level discussions led by the Rt Hon. Helen Clark, former Prime Minister of New Zealand and a prominent advocate for sustainable development, in April 2024. Tanzania’s selection as the host country underscores its unwavering commitment to transparency and accountability in the extractive sector. The event also highlighted the nation’s efforts to create an investment-friendly environment that balances economic growth with social and environmental responsibility.
Tanzania’s extractive industry, which includes mining, oil, and gas, has long been a cornerstone of the country’s economy. By hosting the EITI Board Meeting, Tanzania demonstrated its dedication to aligning with global best practices and fostering trust among international investors. The event served as a platform to showcase the country’s progress in implementing the EITI Standard, which promotes open and accountable management of natural resources.
As a key stakeholder and main event sponsor, AngloGold Ashanti Tanzania was pivotal in positioning Tanzania as a top destination for responsible investment in the extractive sector. The company’s commitment to sustainable mining practices and community empowerment was a central theme throughout the discussions.
Addressing the event, Simon Shayo, Vice President of sustainability & Corporate Affairs (Africa) at AngloGold Ashanti, emphasized the company’s vision for mining as a force for good. “Our motto is simple: we mine to empower people and advance societies. Everything we do aligns with this vision, and today’s discussions reaffirm that in mining, everyone has a part to play,” Shayo stated. His remarks resonated with attendees, highlighting the importance of collaboration among governments, companies, and communities to ensure that mining benefits all stakeholders.
AngloGold Ashanti Tanzania has been a trailblazer in promoting transparency and sustainability in the mining sector. The company’s initiatives include investing in local communities, supporting education and healthcare programs, and implementing environmentally responsible mining practices. By aligning its operations with the principles of the EITI, AngloGold Ashanti Tanzania has set a benchmark for other companies in the industry.
The event was graced by the presence of Hon. Anthony P. Mavunde (MP), Tanzania’s Minister for Minerals, who welcomed global stakeholders with open arms. In his address, Minister Mavunde expressed gratitude to the EITI Secretariat and Rt Hon. Helen Clark for choosing Tanzania as the host country. “We thank Rt Hon. Helen Clark and the EITI Secretariat for favouring our country with this privilege to host the 62nd EITI Board Meeting. Please welcome and feel at home,” he said.
Minister Mavunde’s remarks underscored the Tanzanian government’s commitment to fostering a transparent and inclusive extractive sector. He highlighted the importance of global collaboration in addressing challenges such as revenue management, environmental sustainability, and community engagement. The minister also reaffirmed Tanzania’s dedication to implementing the EITI Standard, which has been instrumental in improving governance and attracting responsible investment.
The 62nd EITI Board Meeting served as a testament to Tanzania’s emergence as a leading hub for the extractive industry in Africa. The country’s rich mineral resources and commitment to transparency and sustainability have positioned it as an attractive destination for investors. Over the past decade, Tanzania has made significant strides in reforming its mining sector, including the introduction of new legislation to ensure that mining activities benefit local communities and contribute to national development.
The event also provided an opportunity for Tanzania to showcase its achievements in implementing the EITI Standard. By disclosing information about revenues, contracts, and production, Tanzania has enhanced accountability and built trust among stakeholders. This transparency has not only strengthened the country’s reputation but also paved the way for increased investment in the sector.
One of the key themes of the 62nd EITI Board Meeting was the role of mining in empowering communities and advancing societies. Participants emphasized the need for mining companies to go beyond profit-making and contribute to the well-being of the communities in which they operate. This includes investing in infrastructure, education, healthcare, and environmental conservation.
AngloGold Ashanti Tanzania has been at the forefront of these efforts, implementing programs that create lasting positive impacts. For example, the company has supported the construction of schools and health facilities, provided scholarships for students, and promoted sustainable livelihoods through agricultural initiatives. These efforts align with the EITI’s broader goal of ensuring that natural resource wealth benefits all citizens.
As the 62nd EITI Board Meeting concluded, participants left with a renewed sense of purpose and commitment to advancing transparency and sustainability in the extractive sector. For Tanzania, the event marked a new chapter in its journey toward becoming a global leader in responsible resource management.
The success of the meeting was a testament to the collaborative efforts of the Tanzanian government, companies like AngloGold Ashanti Tanzania, and international organizations such as the EITI Secretariat. By working together, these stakeholders have demonstrated that transparency and sustainability are not just ideals but achievable goals that can drive economic growth and improve lives.
As Tanzania continues to cement its position as a leading extractive hub, the lessons learned, and partnerships forged during the 62nd EITI Board Meeting will serve as a foundation for future progress. With a shared vision of mining as a force for good, Tanzania and its partners are paving the way for a brighter, more sustainable future for the extractive industry in Africa and beyond.
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