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While the miner has not recorded any positive COVID-19 cases among its payroll, it said it would suspend the mine on the recommendation of the Tanzanian government.

The rainy season in the region is projected to close in late April. The company said it was hoping to be able to start mining in the northern area of the property at that point if there is an improvement in the situation.

The mine's security team will remain in place during the shutdown, which was immediately effective as of its April 7 confirmation of the decision.

"Edenville places the safety and wellbeing of its employees and contractors as the highest priority," the company said. "Accordingly, in response to the pandemic, a business continuity programme has been introduced to protect staff while ensuring the continued safe operation of the company."

Rukwa is located about 850 kilometres west of Dar es Salaam. Edenville said that, as of April 7, Tanzania had 22 cases of COVID-19 and one death.