The government is in need of Rwf26 billion to rehabilitate mining pits, including those that were as a result of mining activities carried out in various parts of the country during the colonial period.

Mining pits are created after the extraction of minerals or other geological materials from the ground. Some of the pits may be difficult for people to identify, posing accident risks.

ALSO READ: MPs appeal for proper management of mining pits

According to the Chief Executive Officer of Rwanda Mines, Petroleum and Gas Board (RMB), Francis Kamanzi, there are so far more than 990 mining pits that were created by mining activities countrywide, including those that have been around since the 1930s.

Speaking to Members of Parliament on Wednesday, January 15, the CEO said the pits are divided into categories including ‘historical sites’ which were completely abandoned (left behind by the colonialists). These are about 380 sites, while there are some 318 that were created through illegal mining.

ALSO READ: Govt mulls punishment for landowners who permit illegal mining activities

Last year, MPs appealed for proper management of hundreds of pits found in various mining sites across the country, including those that date back to the colonial period. They warned that they pose a risk to people’s lives.