Tunduru

Tunduru is a town situated in the Tunduru District of the Ruvuma Region in southern Tanzania, East Africa. It functions as the administrative center for the Tunduru District and is divided into two wards: Mlingoti West (Mlingoti Magharibi) and Mlingoti East (Mlingoti Mashariki). The town's approximate coordinates are 11°04′S latitude and 37°21′E longitude. The Tunduru District is characterized by its challenging natural environment, including extensive miombo woodlands that are often infested with tsetse flies. Historically, the area has also been known for incidents involving man-eating lions. To the south, the Ruvuma River forms a natural boundary with Mozambique.The region gained significant attention around 1994 following the discovery of various gemstones, which transformed Tunduru into a prominent gem-mining area. A diverse range of precious stones has been unearthed here, including sapphires (in shades of blue, purple, yellow, and pink), rubies, chrysoberyls (yellow and alexandrite varieties), topaz, quartz, garnets (including tsavorite), spinel, and even diamonds. Gem mining is a seasonal activity, predominantly taking place during the dry months of October and November when river water levels recede, providing access to gem-bearing gravels in the exposed riverbeds. During the wet season, from December to July, the local population primarily engages in agricultural pursuits such as farming rice, corn, and vegetables. The gem trade in Tunduru is structured, with foreign buyers often based in Tunduru town, while local brokers operate in smaller trading villages like Majimaji.In addition to gem mining, cashew nut farming is another significant economic activity in Tunduru. The Ruvuma regional government is actively involved in fostering development within the Tunduru District, implementing projects aimed at enhancing primary education through digital technology and planning the establishment of agricultural tool centers to support local farmers. The town is also served by a small airport, Tunduru Airport (HTTU).