Over 1,600 men and women working in Rwinkwavu mines in Kayonza District are expected to undergo training in modern mining processes.

This was disclosed by Albert Nsengiyumva, the Minister of State in charge of Technical and Vocational Education and Training, at a handover of certificates to 29 miners who had completed training in Rwinkwavu, Kayonza District, on Wednesday.

The four-month training aimed at equipping the miners with modern mining skills that will help them in their daily activities. The training was sponsored by the World Bank through Workforce Development Authority (WDA).

The ceremony was also attended by Evode Imena, Minister of State for Mining; and Jean Marie Kalim, Wolfram Mining and Processing Company (WMPC) director general, and local leaders.

"Equipping local communities with skills helps mining companies to build a formidable workforce and helps individuals get jobs. This is particularly important as it creates economic opportunities that have an impact beyond the immediate life of mine operations,” Nsengiyumva said.

Nsengiyumva said the government had earmarked Rwf2.6 billion to build the capacity of workers in various fields, including mining. He added that over 5,000 workers from 70 institutions had so far benefitted.

"The skilled miners we have are few and ageing. So, the only solution is to train young ones,” he said.

"We are doing our best to give Rwandans knowledge and skills to become more productive. The training of the 29 miners is just the beginning. We shall train all the 1,600 and move to other areas of the country. The bottom line is to get enough skilled manpower.

Jean Marie Kalim, who guided the government officials around various mining points, said the training will help ensure sustainable mining.

"That we trained miners gives us hope. The majority of the trainees are young and energetic and well suited for the work,” he said.

The trainees were given skills in mining exploitation, security, general knowledge of first aid and health care, mining code, safety, use of civil explosives and environmental protection.

Meanwhile, the miners said they were happy to get ready employment immediately after training.

"Every youth needs to seek the training. The majority of us were already employed in different capacities before we even received the certificates,” said Emmanuel Nsengiyumva, one of the trainees.

Workers who completed the training received professional certifications recognised throughout the country.

National revenue projections from mining this year stands at $293.2 million.

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