How Rwanda plans to make 90% of mining operations climate-compatible by 2030
Rwanda has announced plans to rehabilitate 994 abandoned mining and quarrying sites by 2030 as part of a broader climate action strategy outlined in its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC 3.0) for the period 2025–2035.
The updated climate plan, recently submitted to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) during COP30, repositions the mining sector as a key player in enhancing climate resilience, rather than a source of environmental risk, The New Times reports.
To achieve this transformation, the country estimates a required investment of $23.2 million. The priority areas for intervention include transitioning to low-carbon mining operations, replacing diesel-powered machinery with renewable energy, limiting deforestation, improving land management, enhancing water conservation, and building infrastructure that can withstand climate-related shocks.
The rehabilitation efforts will focus on refilling abandoned pits and restoring vegetation with native tree species to reduce erosion, improve stormwater absorption, and support biodiversity. Flood-impact assessments will be mandatory to ensure rehabilitated areas remain free of pollutants during extreme weather events.
The government aims for 90% of mining operations to integrate climate-compatible practices, such as water-efficient processing techniques and dry-stack tailings systems, by 2030.
Rwamagana District, located in the Eastern Province, has been identified as a priority site for restoration. During Mining Week, observed from 2 to 5 December under the theme "Minerals for a Smarter and Green Future", environmental organisation Save Environment Initiative partnered with MMB Mining Company to plant 3,650 tree seedlings.
Tree species planted included Eucalyptus, Grevillea, Umuhumuro, Umusave, and Iminyinya.
"Mining continues to play a vital role in Rwanda's development, but unsustainable practices have caused serious environmental degradation – from soil erosion and water contamination to biodiversity loss," said Concorde Kubwimana, CEO of Save Environment Initiative. He noted that damaged wetlands and unstable landscapes are an increasing threat to both ecosystems and communities.
Rwanda remains a significant global producer of tin, tantalum, and tungsten (3Ts), while also exporting gold, gemstones, rare earth elements, and lithium.
The sector has become Rwanda’s top export revenue source, surpassing tourism. Export revenues grew from $373 million in 2017 to $1.75 billion in 2024, with a target of $2.17 billion by 2029.
Prime Minister Justin Nsengiyumva expressed the government's continued support for a responsible mining sector that aligns with international standards and contributes to local communities.
"Mining is not only about the extraction of resources; it is about creating opportunities for growth, innovation and shared prosperity," he said.
The sector currently employs around 92,000 people, according to the Prime Minister.
This story is written and edited by the Global South World team, you can contact us here.
