RULINDO-The confidence of miners in Rutongo, Rulindo district is likely to improve after management finally provided them with protective gear and health insurance.

The development puts to rest miners’ complaints related to the lack of mining gear.

While touring the area last month, Prime Minister Bernard Makuza, directed all mining companies in the country to provide maximum protection to their workers.

The mines’ management told The New Times that it has, so far, imported over 4,000 pairs of gum boots, 7,000 overalls and masks.

"We are very committed to providing necessary protection to our workers,” said Martin Kahanvitz, the Chief Executive Officer of the mines.

According to mining experts, a full protection gear should include helmets, boots, overalls, gloves and masks for respiratory protection.

The management also provided the miners with health insurance cards.

On the damage of residents’ houses by stone blasts, Kahanvitz said the company is still assessing the degree of damage. "We need to first establish the number of houses damaged so that we renovate them,” he said.

Rulindo District Mayor, Justus Kangwagye, pointed out that a lot has been done to sort out issues in the sector.

"We did everything possible to amicably address issues with the management and all other remaining issues will be settled in not more than two weeks from now.” 

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