KAYONZA - Wolfram Mining and Processing Company (WMP), yesterday, celebrated International Mining Day in Rwinkwavu sector, Kayonza district.

According to WMP Managing Director, Malic Kalima, the celebration came at a period when the company is doing well both in mining and research.

Kalima said that the company has made tremendous progress, especially the acquisition of mining equipment which will enable the company expand on its activities and subsequently on its revenue.

"Our activities have mainly been centred on research......we are now set for full-scale mining. We acquired modern mining machines from the Czech Republic.”

WMP has acquired modern drilling machines and compressors.

Two mining geologists Kominek Emanue and Dyk Vladimir, from the Czech Republic, told The New Times that they are helping in exploration of the mines.

"We have been in the mining business for 30 years and we know what it takes. The problems involved are not unique to developing countries. Mining must been done after a thorough research like the one we are doing,” said Emanue.

Alex Gatera, a miner, who was awarded at the colourful ceremony, said that the existence of minerals in the area has helped improve the living standards of the people.

"Miners and their families don’t struggle to get basic needs, even when there is general food shortage. We are able pay for health insurance and save for the future,” he said.

There are two types of minerals mined in the sectors of Murama, Rwinkwavu and Mwiri; Tin 96%, and Wolfram 4%.
Rwinkwavu minerals were discovered by Belgian brothers Gargarathos in 1930, and mining started in 1939 by Ridell and Gastrell (also Belgians).

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