This article discusses Rwanda’s ambition to double its mineral recovery rate from 40% to 80% by 2029, aiming for $2.2 billion in annual exports. The Rwanda Mines, Petroleum and Gas Board has developed ten strategies including mechanization, local production of explosives, sensor-based sorting, and enhanced water management to achieve these goals.
Rwanda’s mining sector currently sees a mineral recovery rate of approximately 40%, with a significant 60% of material being lost during extraction. With an ambitious goal of doubling this recovery rate to 80% by 2029, the government aims to increase annual mineral exports from $1.1 billion in 2023 to $2.2 billion by 2029. The Rwanda Mines, Petroleum and Gas Board (RMB) has outlined ten distinct strategies to reach this objective.
1. Mechanization of Mining Operations: Mechanization entails adopting modern equipment to enhance recovery rates. The RMB acknowledges a necessity for companies that can provide mining-related services and equipment in Rwanda.
2. Affordable Electricity and Local Production of Explosives: Reducing costs related to electricity and explosives is integral to minimizing mineral loss. Local production of explosives is considered a vital investment to overcome the challenges linked to importing such materials.
3. Sensor-based Sorting: This innovative method employs advanced technology to separate valuable minerals from waste, particularly for complex ore types. The RMB advocates for advancements in sensor-based sorting practices to boost recovery.
4. Green and Recycling Technologies: The mining board is actively seeking investors in recycling technologies, promoting sustainability in the sector and effective waste mineral recovery.
5. Geosciences Laboratory Operationalisation: Establishing and managing geoscience laboratories is essential for accurate mineral exploration and effective regulation within the mining sector. These labs will analyze geological data to support mining operations.
6. Delineating Mineral Resources: Partnering with Rio Tinto, the government is intensively exploring new mineral resource locations to accurately delineate and quantify these resources for future mining activities.
7. Value Addition: Establishing additional processing facilities for minerals such as tungsten and lithium is encouraged. With the intention to become a regional hub, Rwanda already has several advanced facilities dedicated to value addition in its mining sector.
8. Engaging the Private Sector: The government is committed to fostering private sector involvement in mining to improve the investment landscape and tap into effective business practices across the mineral value chain.
9. Efficient Water Management: Effective management of water resources is crucial in optimizing mineral recovery. The RMB promotes responsible practices to minimize environmental impact while enhancing the efficiency of mining operations.
10. Professionalisation and Improving Geological Knowledge: Geological knowledge is vital for efficient mining operations. Enhancing the skills of the workforce, approximately 75,000 individuals, is essential for successful engagement in the industry.
The outlined strategies to double Rwanda’s mineral recovery rate include modernizing operations through mechanization, improving accessibility to essential inputs, adopting innovative technologies, and fostering private sector engagement. Through these initiatives, the country aims to elevate its mining output and substantially increase mineral exports by 2029, while also committing to sustainable practices within the sector.
Original Source: www.newtimes.co.rw
