How Rwanda's mining sector plans to dig itself out of the COVID-19 crisis

The mining sector in Rwanda has faced significant challenges due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, with disruptions in global prices, production, and supply chains. However, the Rwanda Mines, Petroleum and Gas Board, led by CEO Francis Gatare, has unveiled a set of strategies aimed at supporting mining companies to resume full operations and recover from the effects of the pandemic. Gatare highlighted the key challenges faced by the sector, including the significant reduction in global metal prices, disruptions in production due to lockdowns, and challenges in international purchases and shipments. Despite these obstacles, the mining sector in Rwanda was among the first to resume operations, with production levels varying between 50% to 80%. While the sector initially fell below targets in the first half of the year, Gatare remains optimistic about a quick bounce back and anticipates a promising outlook for the rest of the year. Gatare pointed out that the opportunities arising from the crisis include the quick recovery of global metal prices as industries resume production, particularly in Asia. He also emphasized the focus on organizing and enhancing local production, job creation, and diversification towards high-value minerals and gemstones. The sector is also looking at increasing value addition and collaborating with regional partners to tap into new opportunities. When discussing the recovery plan for small-scale mining operations, Gatare emphasized the need to incentivize operators and provide access to government facilities and resources for exploration investments. While the sector may not require a specific stimulus package, individual operators facing constraints will be supported to ensure the mining sector remains a viable investment opportunity.