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Buzwagi Gold Mine

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Industrial site
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Buzwagi Gold Mine (Tanzania)

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The Buzwagi Gold Mine is located near Kahama in the Shinyanga Region and was one of Tanzania's most significant open-pit operations for over a decade. Commissioned in 2009 by Barrick Gold, it produced substantial quantities of gold until its active mining phase ended in 2021. Currently, the mine is undergoing a remarkable transition as it is being converted into a Special Economic Zone (SEZ). This pilot project aims to utilize the existing infrastructure for industrial purposes, ensuring a sustainable economic future in the post-mining era. The site includes extensive processing plants, power supply facilities, and transport links that are now being made attractive to new businesses. Buzwagi is regarded as a model for responsible mine closure in Africa, demonstrating how former mining sites can be successfully transformed. The region continues to benefit from the logistical foundations established during the mine's operation.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C222323232322222426262422
Rain mm145117146125386351154170184

📋 Practical info

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What is this place?
The Buzwagi Gold Mine is a former open-pit mine now in its closure phase, pioneering mine rehabilitation and reclamation efforts. It serves as a key example of sustainable mining practices for the region.
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Visiting
The mine is not open to the public, but the surrounding areas can be viewed from public roads. Visitors can observe rehabilitation works from a safe distance.
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Where to view it
A good viewpoint is the road passing the mine site, offering a broad view of the pit. Nearby hills provide a panoramic perspective on the reclaimed areas.
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Local products
No products are mined on site anymore, but the region grows agricultural produce such as maize and beans. Seasonal fruits like mangoes are available at local markets.
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Active season
The mine's main activity occurred in the past during gold extraction; today, rehabilitation continues year-round. The agricultural season in the region runs from November to April when rains support harvests.
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Nearby
A visit to Buzwagi Mine can be combined with a safari in the nearby Serengeti National Park or a trip to Lake Victoria. The town of Kahama features cultural insights and local markets.

Geography

Coordinates
-3.85600, 32.74800

Facts

  • The Buzwagi Gold Mine officially commenced operations in 2009.
  • Active open-pit mining was concluded in 2021 as reserves were depleted.
  • Buzwagi was the first mine in Tanzania to host a Special Economic Zone.
  • During its lifespan, it was one of the largest employers in the Kahama area.
  • The mine was formerly owned by Acacia Mining before being integrated into Barrick.
  • The site is now being repurposed for industrial and logistical enterprises.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

KahamaKahama17 km · SExplore →
Isaka Dry PortIsaka Dry Port21 km · NExplore →
Bulyanhulu Gold MineBulyanhulu Gold Mine66 km · SEExplore →
Shinyanga FarmlandShinyanga Farmland74 km · NExplore →
ShinyangaShinyanga76 km · NExplore →
Midelt Apple RegionMidelt Apple Region81 km · WExplore →
MideltMidelt83 km · WExplore →
High PlateausHigh Plateaus85 km · EExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

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© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is Buzwagi Goldmine?
A former large gold mining project in the Shinyanga region.
Can one go there today?
No, it is an industrial site in decommissioning or with restricted access.
What was its role?
It was a significant employer in Shinyanga.
Best time to visit?
The dry season from June to September is the most pleasant.
What is in the region?
Shinyanga is predominantly agricultural.
Buzwagi Gold Mine: where is it located?
Buzwagi Gold Mine is located in Tanzania.
Buzwagi Gold Mine: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Buzwagi Gold Mine: why is it worth visiting?
The Buzwagi Gold Mine is located near Kahama in the Shinyanga Region and was one of Tanzania's most significant open-pit operations for over a decade.
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Nearby cities

Makambako — Buzwagi Gold Mine (Tanzania)
Makambako
A fast-growing transit city where the TAZARA railway and the Tan-Zam Highway meet.
Njombe — Buzwagi Gold Mine (Tanzania)
Njombe
One of the coldest cities in the country, famous for extensive tea plantations.
Kahama — Buzwagi Gold Mine (Tanzania)
Kahama
A rapidly growing mining town in the northwest, driven by gold mining.
Shinyanga — Buzwagi Gold Mine (Tanzania)
Shinyanga
An important trading center for cotton and cattle in the dry plains.

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Vast farmlands.