Major mining boost for Rwanda

Rwanda’s mining industry just received a major boost following the signing of mining contracts to exploit 10 mining concessions that are set to earn the country up to US$45 million in five years.

Reuters news agency reported that the deal had been signed with six mining companies as part of a privatisation plan.

Annually for five years from 2017, Rwanda expects to produce 3 200 tonnes of mixed tantalum, tin and tungsten ores from the concessions, or around 30% of total production, Evode Imena, Rwandan state minister for mining, reportedly told a news conference.

The concessions are in the western part of Rwanda and will bring in investments of about US$9 million. Five of the companies awarded concessions are owned locally and one is Indian owned.

Tantalum from coltan is used to make tantalum capacitors, used in electronic products.