Urgent Calls for Reopening Abandoned Mining Sites in Rwanda
Lawmakers in Rwanda have raised urgent concerns about the need to reopen abandoned mining sites across the country. They warn that delays in reallocating suspended licenses are contributing to a surge in illegal mining, job losses, and environmental degradation. This issue has become a focal point as members of the Parliamentary Committee on Foreign Affairs, Cooperation and Security continue their oversight visits in 15 districts to evaluate the state of mining activities and their economic impact.
During an inspection in Ngororero District, where 12 out of its 13 sectors have mineral deposits, MPs voiced their worries about the fate of sites left idle after the suspension of five companies’ licenses. These suspensions have resulted in more than 4,300 workers losing their jobs, many of whom have turned to illegal mining for survival.
“Revoking licenses for companies that breach regulations is understandable,” said MP Beth Murora. “But once a site is left idle, the Rwanda Mines, Petroleum and Gas Board (RMB) should immediately reissue permits to compliant investors. The current situation is not only hurting the economy but also destroying the environment.”
Ngororero Mayor Christophe Nkusi echoed similar concerns, stating that illegal mining has reduced local revenues and endangered lives. He urged residents to stop engaging in unauthorized mining, emphasizing that it hinders development by reducing revenue that could fund public projects. He also highlighted the dangers posed by unsafe pits, where people are dying due to unsafe conditions.
“We urge residents to stop engaging in unauthorized mining,” Nkusi said. “It slows development because we lose revenue that could fund public projects. People are dying in unsafe pits, and the environment is being destroyed.”
He called for swift action so that either suspended companies resume operations or new investors are licensed to take over. “This would restore jobs, promote growth, and reduce accidents caused by unsafe mining,” he added.
Environmental officials have also raised alarms over unrehabilitated pits left behind by defunct operators. Aloys Munyarukiko, the District Environmental Officer, pointed out that many open pits pose serious safety and ecological risks.
“Companies are required to deposit a security bond when granted a license,” he noted. “Authorities should explore ways to redirect that money to districts so it can be used to rehabilitate abandoned pits.”
He also urged RMB to include revoked sites in new bidding rounds to attract credible investors. “RMB knows which companies have lost their permits; those sites should be promptly added to new bidding blocks so that legal mining can resume,” he said.
Addressing the Challenges of Illegal Mining
The issue of illegal mining has been a growing concern in Rwanda, with over 100 illegal mines identified. Accidents in these areas have resulted in the deaths of 429 people over the past five years. In response, the government is considering stricter penalties for landowners who permit illegal mining activities.
RMB officials confirmed that the agency is actively seeking new investors for sites with mining potential. They mentioned that about 10 blocks are currently under final evaluation, with more expected to be opened for bidding in December. When a licensed miner fails to comply with regulations, the law requires that the site revert to the government, which then organizes new pitching rounds to attract capable investors.
Ngororero remains one of Rwanda’s key mining districts, with 19 licenses issued to 15 companies, along with three exploration permits and 30 quarry licenses. The district produces various minerals, including cassiterite, wolfram, coltan, amethyst, and beryllium.
Economic and Environmental Impacts
Under the National Strategy for Transformation (NST2), Rwanda aims to double mining output within five years. The sector is recognized as a top source of export revenue and employment for over 57,000 workers. However, the country faces significant challenges in managing its mining resources effectively.
Nationwide, there are more than 990 abandoned or inactive mining pits, including 380 historical sites left by colonial-era miners and 318 created through illegal mining. Rehabilitating these sites is estimated to cost Rwf 26 billion.
Moving Forward
The call for urgent action highlights the need for a coordinated approach involving government agencies, local communities, and private investors. By addressing the issues of abandoned mining sites, Rwanda can not only mitigate environmental damage but also create sustainable employment opportunities and boost its economy.
Efforts to reintroduce legal mining operations and ensure proper rehabilitation of abandoned sites will be crucial in achieving the goals outlined in the NST2. With the right policies and investments, Rwanda can transform its mining sector into a more responsible and profitable industry.