Zanzibar is positioning itself for a major economic pivot, launching a targeted campaign to explore and develop potentially lucrative strategic mineral deposits.
The semi-autonomous Tanzanian archipelago, historically reliant on tourism and spice exports, is moving into an advanced exploration phase after initial geological surveys revealed promising signs of high-value heavy mineral sands. Industry experts note the discoveries could rewrite the island’s economic narrative if the deposits prove commercially viable.
“Initial geological surveys have revealed promising signs of heavy mineral sands, including ilmenite and zircon, which hold significant economic value,” said Ali Hassan Mrisho, head of the Mineral Division in Zanzibar’s Ministry of Water, Energy and Minerals.
Speaking in Dar es Salaam at the launch of the 7th Tanzania Mining and Investment Conference (TMIC 2026), Mrisho indicated that the government views the mining sector as a critical frontier for capital injection. To accelerate the efforts, Zanzibar is partnering directly with the mainland’s Geological Survey of Tanzania (GST) to map out the extent of the resources.
The push into extractive industries represents a delicate balancing act for Zanzibar, where pristine beaches drive a multi-million-dollar hospitality sector. Government officials are eager to signal to international markets that environmental guardrails will remain a priority as exploration ramps up.
“The upcoming advanced exploration phase will be conducted in line with sustainable development principles,” Mrisho said, adding that the overarching goal is to ensure “resource development benefits both the economy and local communities.”
While comprehensive studies are still underway, Zanzibar is already laying the groundwork to capture foreign direct investment. “The government views the mining sector as a key driver of economic growth and investment,” Mrisho noted, emphasizing that the islands are actively positioning themselves to attract global players once the full scope of the mineral wealth is quantified.
