HANDING the Liganga and Mchuchuma iron ore and coal mining, processing projects to Sichuan Hongda Group (SHG), a Chinese state owned firm, is close to being realized.

Dr Suleiman Serera, the Industry and Trade deputy permanent secretary who also chairs the national negotiation team for the projects made this affirmation during a tour of the project sites in Ludewa District, Njombe Region yesterday.

The twin projects are large-scale ventures involving the extraction of coal and iron ore, the construction of processing plants and supporting infrastructure for electricity generation and transportation, he said.

The projects will reduce the country’s reliance on imported steel, address energy shortages and spur industrial growth across multiple sectors, he said, pointing out that beyond national economic gains, new markets will be created for local produce, increasing household incomes and improving living standards.

Community leaders are optimistic that small-scale traders and service providers will also benefit from increased commercial activity around the project sites, since, despite earlier delays, officials insist that the projects are now closer to realization than ever.

The top ministerial official asserted that the twin ventures are about more than mining—they are central to industrialization, energy security, and inclusive economic growth in Tanzania.

As negotiations near completion, expectations in Ludewa are high, with residents viewing the projects as potential game changers, offering long-term economic and social benefits for the region, from job creation to better infrastructure and enhanced local services.

“The people of Ludewa are ready and eager to participate in these transformative projects. This is an opportunity to change the economic landscape of our district and the nation,” the DPS intoned.

His remarks confirmed expectations already circulating that negotiations to initiate the long-awaited Liganga and Mchuchuma twin projects were at their final stages, with top officials largely assured that work on the strategic ventures will soon begin.

He said that the government is reviewing mechanisms to facilitate the projects while paying attention to special requirements aimed at ensuring smooth and effective execution.

“The goal is to accelerate implementation and guarantee maximum benefits for the nation,” he stated, noting that the proposed investor, a company fully owned by the Chinese government, has expressed serious commitment to undertake the projects.

Nicolaus Shombe, the National Development Corporation (NDC) managing director, addressed concerns among Ludewa residents that associated factories could be constructed outside the district, affirming that all facilities will be built within the project area.

“The government and NDC are committed to ensuring that Ludewa residents benefit directly from these projects through employment and other economic opportunities,” he said, underlining that local communities would be prioritized in recruitment and sourcing various needs at the work sites.

Olivanus Thomas, the district commissioner, said the projects are strategic initiatives that could transform the district, with considerable impact on the region and the national economy. “We anticipate new jobs, infrastructure upgrades and opportunities for local enterprises,” he added.