New technology offers hope for safer mining in Tanzania

Dar es Salaam. As Tanzania intensifies its efforts to improve environmental and safety standards, mining companies are adopting new technology to mitigate one of the sector's most persistent hazards—dust.

This shift is especially crucial as the country navigates increasing concerns about climate change and health risks for workers and communities near mining areas.

For years, Tanzanian mines—both large and small—have relied heavily on water trucks to control dust, an approach that is becoming less sustainable due to water scarcity and the need for more efficient solutions.

The problem of dust is multifaceted, affecting worker health, equipment, and productivity, particularly in open-pit mines and quarries where dust from blasting, haul roads and processing plants is relentless.

"While we have been using water trucks to control dust, the results are far from ideal. The dust persists, especially on haul roads, making it difficult to maintain a healthy work environment," said a former employee at Bulyanhulu Mine, Mr Thobias Mbena, one of the country’s largest gold mines.

He further told The Citizen on September 13, 2024, that "Our mines need a solution that reduces our water use and offers long-term sustainability."

Health risks are also a pressing concern. Prolonged exposure to mining dust, particularly fine particulate matter (PM10), has been linked to severe respiratory illnesses, including silicosis and lung cancer.

A health expert, Mr Aidan Muhavile, highlighted that the dangers go beyond the workplace, with dust posing significant risks to communities living near mining sites.

"Dust exposure can lead to chronic health issues like silicosis and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)," Mr Muhavile explained. "Miners and residents in nearby areas are especially vulnerable, and these diseases often take years to manifest, making early intervention crucial."

The arrival of advanced dust suppression technologies in Tanzania offers a glimmer of hope. One such company, Dust-A-Side, from South Africa, has introduced systems that drastically reduce airborne dust using eco-friendly methods.

Partnering with local firm Afrika Kazi, they are working to tackle the dust problem in mines across the country. These systems include high-pressure mist systems and fog cannons that minimise water usage while effectively controlling dust.

Dust-A-Side's Chief Operating Officer for Africa, Mr David Van der Linde, noted during the ongoing 25th BuildExpo Tanzania 2024, that airborne dust, especially from haul roads, is responsible for about 40 percent of total emissions in mining operations.

He emphasised that controlling this dust is vital not only for visibility and safety but also for equipment maintenance. "Airborne dust reduces visibility for truck operators, making collisions more likely. It also leads to increased wear and tear on tires," Van der Linde said.

The timing of these innovations aligns with Tanzania’s broader environmental, social, and governance (ESG) commitments.

In line with global climate change efforts, mining companies are under increasing pressure to adopt greener technologies.

"With the world focussing on reducing emissions, Tanzania's mining sector must align with these standards. These dust suppression technologies can help us reduce our water and chemical consumption while improving working conditions," said John Matinyi, a veteran miner who has worked in the industry for over two decades.

Mr Matinyi, who was diagnosed with lung cancer after years of working in the mines, expressed concern over the long-term health risks posed by dust. "It’s not just about productivity; it's about survival. Technologies that prioritise our health are long overdue, especially in smaller mines where health risks are often overlooked," he added.

The impact of effective dust control goes beyond immediate safety concerns. According to Van der Linde, suppressing dust can lead to significant savings for mining companies by reducing the wear and tear on equipment and cutting down on fuel consumption.

Furthermore, these systems contribute to a healthier environment for surrounding communities, many of whom have long suffered from poor air quality.

As Tanzania positions itself to meet its 2035 environmental goals, the adoption of such technologies will play a crucial role in transforming the mining industry.

Experts say this transformation is necessary, given the sector's substantial contribution to the national economy and its role in creating jobs.