Another African country tightens grip on its gold after seizing a shipment worth $520,000 as Africa battles $30 billion in undeclared exports

African countries are stepping up efforts to stop commercially important minerals such as gold from leaving the continent without generating fair value for their economies.

Like several African gold-producing countries, Tanzania has intensified its crackdown on mineral smuggling and revenue losses, intercepting gold valued at TSh1.345 billion, about $520,000.

Tanzania intensifies anti-smuggling operations

According to local reports, the Tanzania Police Force, Mining Commission, security agencies and the Task Force on Combating Mineral Smuggling conducted the operation on July 1, 2026.

Deputy Minister for Minerals Steven Kiruswa said verification found that the consignment contained 163 pieces of gold weighing 4,434.66 grams.