Security clampdown sees mining profits soar

Tanzania has recorded increased revenues from sales of tanzanite, which authorities attribute to the 24km perimeter wall surrounding the mines in Mirerani in the northern Manyara Region. It was constructed in April to curb the smuggling of the rare gemstone. Tanzanite revenues rose to $461 000 in September, from a low of $74 000 registered in January 2015, thanks to new laws and regulations that have seen better reporting of exports and increased payment of royalties to the government. The East African reports that Minerals Minister Angela Kairuki also attributed the remarkable growth in revenues to tightened security at airports and border points, through which the rare gemstone was being smuggled out of the country. The government hopes to generate $136.6m from mining this year, up from $132.6m last year.