This archive report was first published on 25 June 2020.
On June 25, 2020, Saniniu Laizer, a Tanzanian miner, made history by discovering two of the biggest Tanzanite stones ever dug up in the country, weighing a combined 14kg.
The rare gemstones, valued at $3.35 million, were sold to the government through the Ministry of Mining, with Laizer receiving a cheque for Ksh350 million.
According to the Ministry of Mining, the event was held to recognize the two largest tanzanite gemstones in history since the beginning of mining activities in Mirerani.
Laizer, a 52-year-old father of over 30 children, has big plans for his newfound wealth, including building a shopping mall and a school near his home.
“I want to build a shopping mall and a school. I want to build this school near my home. There are many poor people around here who can’t afford to take their children to school,” he told the BBC.
Laizer also received a congratulatory phone call from President John Magufuli during a live television broadcast.
