Introduction.

High-grade rock gypsum and impure earthly or sandy gypsite are known in Tanzania. Rock gypsum in association with beds of anhydrite and rock salty occur in the Mesozoic sedimentary sequence in the Southeast Kilwa District. Gypsite is more widespread than the rock variety. Four localities contain gypsite, namely, Mkomazi in Lushoto District, Msagali in Mpwapwa District, Itigi in Manyoni District and Mtegu in Lindi District.

Kilwa District.

 Rock gypsum occurs in association with beds, which make up part of the Mesozoic sedimentary sequence in the southeastern Kilwa District. There are three localities of gypsum rock: Pindora, Mbaru (Nondwa southern part of Mandawa) and Mkomore. Reserves of 2 million tonnes of gypsum with an average grade of90% have been estimated.

Mkomazi.

 The gypsum is of three types: nodular, flake and powder. The grade of the gypsum varies from 70% to 85%. Total reserves are estimated at 829,000 tonnes

Makanya.

Five type of gypsum are present at Makanya, namely rock gypsum, gypsite, alabaster, satin spar and selenite. Reserves of over 1.0Mt grading 82% gypsum have been estimated. The Mkomazi and Makanya gypsum deposits are mined at a small-scale level and the gypsum is being used in the cement industry.

Itigi.

Gypsiferous clay and gypsum bands have been formed in an area of internal drainage in which shallow lades have been develop. Reserves estimated at 15,000tonnes with an average grade of 70-75 percent gypsum. The deposit is mined by small-scale miners.

Msagali.

The deposit is situated at Msagali in the Mpwapwa District, Dodoma Region in Central Tanzania. The gypsum is soft and porous (gypsite) and occurs in beds near the surface with a purity of up to 75%. The deposit is mined and used in the cement industry.