Rwanda targets USD 2.1 Billion in mining revenue by 2029
On Tuesday, November 2, 2025, Rwanda launched its annual Mining Week, bringing together mining companies, government institutions, private operators, and partners to discuss how the sector can be further strengthened through advanced technology and improved geological research to boost productivity.
The event also serves as a platform for industries, investors, and other stakeholders to expand collaboration, enhance value addition, and improve efficiency in mineral exploration and processing.
This is the 8th edition of the annual Mining Week, which focuses on advancing the mining sector, identifying existing challenges, and proposing sustainable solutions.
Representatives of various mining companies participating in the opening ceremony, including Justin Uwiringiyimana of Trinity Nyakabingo Mining Company and Bosco Kayibutsi of Gasabo Gold Refinery expressed their expectations of attracting more investors, as witnessed in previous editions.
Justin Uwiringiyimana said: “We have come here to understand the country’s latest vision for the mining sector, but also to explore new opportunities and identify areas where we can expand using modern and competitive mining practices.”
His colleague Bosco added:“Our goal as a refinery is to become a regional hub in East Africa and beyond. Events like this allow us to showcase our capacity and technology, and demonstrate to our partners the level at which we operate so they continue supplying us with gold from different countries. A hub cannot rely on one country alone.”
Alice Uwase, Director General of the Rwanda Mines, Petroleum and Gas Board (RMB), stated that discussions during the week will focus on how technology can help reduce barriers that still limit productivity in the sector, especially since many devices used today—such as phones, vehicles, and GPS systems depend on minerals, some of which are mined in Rwanda.
She explained:“Whether you arrived here using a fuel-powered or electric vehicle, or using your phone and GPS for navigation, remember that all these technologies rely on minerals. To expand opportunities in mining, we must strengthen investment in technology and geological research. Advancing knowledge must be a priority, because the solutions we have today come from investments made in science, technology, and environmental management.”
She added:“We must all work towards building an inclusive and resilient mining sector that can compete globally.”
Prime Minister Dr. Justin Nsengiyumva officially launched the Mining Week and assured players in the sector of the government’s continued support. He urged them to keep modernizing operations while protecting the environment.
He said:“I commend your contribution to the sector, which employs more than 92,000 Rwandans, and for the continued progress toward professionalizing mining. Your efforts demonstrate that mining can be a driver of sustainable development. We urge you to uphold good governance, environmental protection, and innovation in the sector.”
He added:“This event is a valuable moment for the government to reaffirm its support for this important sector. It is also an opportunity to strengthen partnerships, collaboration, and investor confidence.”
During this Mining Week, which concludes on December 5, 2025,discussions will focus on the use of advanced technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), environmentally friendly mining practices, and reducing workplace accidents that are still common in traditional mining.
Currently, Rwanda mines various minerals including gold, cassiterite, coltan, wolfram, and newly discovered lithium in several parts of the country. Last year, the sector generated USD 1.7 billion, up from USD 370 million in 2017. The country aims to reach USD 2.1 billion in mining revenue by 2029.
