The Ulanga District in Tanzania's Morogoro region, specifically the area of Mahenge, has rapidly gained global recognition for its rare spinel gemstones, establishing itself as a significant center for mineral tourism. This burgeoning popularity was highlighted by Engineer Penina Mtego, the manager of Ruby International Mine, which oversees spinel mining operations in Epanko village. Engineer Mtego emphasized that the establishment of the Spinel Mineral Tourism Center is a direct result of the exceptional quality of these minerals, which possess a remarkable, laboratory-like appearance, drawing in international gemstone traders, researchers, and various industry stakeholders who wish to observe the actual mining sites and specialized storage facilities.

Spinel from Mahenge is particularly celebrated for its distinctive beauty, characterized by its vibrant pink and red hues, which captivate buyers and gem miners from across the globe. The prestige of Mahenge spinel is further amplified by its frequent mentions at prominent international gem exhibitions, including the Tucson Gem Show in the United States, the Hong Kong Jewellery Fair, and the Bangkok Thailand shows. Such recognition firmly places Tanzania as one of the world's most crucial sources of superior quality minerals.

Salehe Mbura, who manages the production unit at the Ruby International Mine, explained that the presence and fame of these minerals have acted as a powerful catalyst for the emergence of a unique form of tourism known as mineral tourism. This innovative tourism model invites visitors to explore the mines, delve into the geological processes of mineral formation, and witness traditional mining activities firsthand. Beyond curious tourists, the center also attracts individuals for business ventures, academic research, or to visit historical sites intricately linked to the mineral's extraction.

The growth of Mahenge's mining tourism has brought substantial contributions to the local economy. It has spurred the creation of new employment opportunities across various sectors, including accommodation, transport, jewelry craftsmanship, and cultural services. Furthermore, residents in nearby villages have directly benefited from this influx of visitors by selling local products and services. Engineer Joseph Ng'itu, a Mining Engineer from the Resident Mining Office in the Mahenge Mining Region, underscored that spinel mining in the area is not merely a valuable asset for Tanzania but also serves as a vital bridge connecting the realms of mining, trade, education, and tourism.

With prudent and sustainable management practices, Mahenge holds immense potential to evolve into a leading hub for mining tourism across the entire African continent, thereby making significant contributions to both social and economic development. Complementing the mining experiences, the center also features a dedicated mining museum, a captivating jewelry exhibition, and essential training programs specifically designed for small-scale miners, further enriching the scope of its offerings.