Rwanda’s mining sector—now employing over 92,000 Rwandans—took center stage on Tuesday as the country opened the 8th Edition of Rwanda Mining Week at the Kigali Convention Centre.
The annual gathering brings together government leaders, investors, international partners, and mining professionals to chart the future of one of Rwanda’s fastest-growing industries.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Prime Minister Dr. Justin Nsengiyumva said the sector remains a pillar of national development and a key driver of jobs, innovation, and economic transformation.
He praised the progress made in building a more professional, technology-driven mining industry and called for sustained efforts to reinforce good governance, environmental protection, and skills development.
This year’s theme—“Minerals for a Smarter and Greener Future”—reflects the sector’s alignment with global efforts toward sustainability and the rising demand for strategic minerals powering clean-energy technologies.
The Prime Minister emphasized Rwanda’s commitment to positioning itself as a trusted, responsible, and reliable supplier to global markets. He noted that the Government will continue providing a stable regulatory environment, strengthening governance, and supporting value-chain partnerships with investors, researchers, and development institutions.
“Mining is not only about extraction,” Dr. Nsengiyumva said. “It is about creating opportunities for growth, innovation, and shared prosperity.”
He urged private-sector players to maintain high standards in community benefit-sharing, environmental conservation, and responsible investment. Rwanda, he added, is ready to contribute meaningfully to the global low-carbon economy while ensuring long-term local gains.
The Prime Minister officially declared the 8th Rwanda Mining Week open, encouraging participants to use the platform for productive dialogue and renewed commitment to a sector central to Rwanda’s economic future.
