Mining companies have been reminded to take safety and professional measures to prevent likely disasters that might arise out of negligence and carelessness. The call follows last Friday’s incident in Gakenke District, where two miners died and another was seriously injured when a cliff caved in. The mining site, located in Mbirima Cell, Coko Sector, belongs to Semirwa, a company owned by one Placide Gaju. Chief Inspector of Police Andre Hakizimana, Police spokesperson for the Northern region, said although the company is licensed to conduct mining activities at the site, it is likely that they did not assess the cliff before mining. “It is not about securing a license and other required documents or buying protective gear alone, there’s also need to ascertain likely dangers, like unsupported or weakened cliffs, and take preventive measures,” CIP Hakizimana said. “Professional mining requires qualified staff, tools and techniques,” he added. He further noted that Rwanda National Police conducts awareness campaigns among miners, but added that in case such disasters have occured, Police should be informed in time to ensure quick response. He also warned against illegal mining, especially conducted at night in closed sites, and appealed to the general public to report culprits in order to prevent such disasters.
