TMCnet News
Academicians Want Sustainable Use of Resources(AllAfrica Via Acquire Media NewsEdge) DONS have called on sustainable use of natural resources, particularly gold mines found in Lake Zone regions for the benefit of future generations. Speaking during a one day symposium on Thursday at the St. Augustine University of Tanzania (SAUT), the facilitator, Dr Aidan Msafiri, said that gold mining in the zone is a topical issue that must be discussed for future generations. "Mwalimu Nyerere had reasons to state that the extractive industry must wait until the nation has its own experts who will handle these resources, but that position has been abandoned by some greedy individuals who misuse the natural resources," said Dr Msafiri. He also expressed disappointment with some gold mining companies that evade paying taxes and seek tax holidays, denying the government much needed revenues. Dr Msafiri noted that because of greedy people corruption has become rampant in the gold mining sub-sector which has led to mistrust between the government and the public. The don lashed at some companies' corporate social responsibility and queried how it should be translated in terms of sustainable development, social welfare and improving the livelihoods of those living around the gold mines. Dr Msafiri said that due to some greedy people communities living around gold mines are in constant conflict with mining companies. People living near the mines such as Mara, Geita, Buzwagi and KMCL have been complaining about environmental pollution and long-term effects after their surroundings are left with a lot of pits after mining activities are over. Despite gold production in the areas, activities there do not translate into meaningful development for the locals. SAUT Acting Vice- Chancellor, Dr Thaddeus Mkamwa appealed to academicians to be proactive and take action when a community is pressed with activities that are not beneficial to them. Speaking on his behalf, Dr Negussie Domnii said that transparency in the mining sector is crucial if the government and communities benefit. The speakers reminded participants that active citizens and effective states can bring changes that aim at boosting the national economy. Copyright Tanzania Daily News. Distributed by AllAfrica Global Media (allAfrica.com). |