This archive report was first published on 26 June 2020.
On June 26, 2020, Tanzanian hand-miner Saniniu Laizer made history by selling two of the largest tanzanite gems ever discovered to the government.
The East African nation's central bank paid Laizer 7.7 billion shillings ($3.3 million) for the stones, which weighed 9.2 kilograms (20.3 pounds) and 5.8 kilograms.
Laizer, clad in traditional attire, was seen celebrating his newfound wealth after the transaction.
