ARUSHA, Dec. 8 -- THE government has reiterated its commitment to empowering Tanzanians in the mineral economy through the Mining for a Better Tomorrow (MBT) program, which aims to provide youth and women with direct benefits from the countrys natural resources.

Over 21 groups of small-scale miners, comprising more than 423 members, have been granted mining licenses in Lemshuku Village, Komolo Ward, Simanjiro District, Arusha Region.

The licenses were issued under the MBT program, where members engage in the mining and trading of gemstones.

The licenses were divided into two categories: seven groups with over 125 members were authorised to mine Tanzanite, while 14 groups with more than 295 members were licensed for mineral trading, inc...