Minister reassures investors

WESTERN PROVINCE NGORORERO — The Minister of state for environment and mines, Vincent Karega, has reaffirmed government’s commitment of creating an enabling environment for investors in order to contribute to the country’s development. He said this on Tuesday while visiting Gatumba Mining Concessions (GMC) in the Ngororero District. The mining is currently at its research phase being carried out by a South African company MPA. Speaking after visiting the site, Karega noted that the mining industry in Rwanda was lagging behind due to the primitive mining motheds that were being used by the locals. However, he added that the new technology being introduced within the mining industry, will enhance the livelihood of many Rwandans and stimulate the country’s economic growth. ‘The government will continue to support investors who contribute to the development of our economy. We strongly support investments improvements,’ he said. According to samples that have been carried out, the Gatumba mining site is said to have Coltan, Quartz, Tin, and Wolfram minerals among others. About US $3.5 million has so far been spent which is part of US $20 million investment slated to be used to develop the mine within a period of two years. Allan Smith, the Chief Executive Officer (GMC), said they are positive that the site will produce the required mineral output once the mining operations starts. He added that regardless of the current world economic meltdown, GMC operations will continue to work as prior planned. Suprien Nsengimana, the Mayor lauded both the government and investors for bringing what he described as a viable investment lifeline to the district. ‘This mining site is a blessing to our district. People have got jobs that will make them attain their development expectations. We thank the government for establishing this plant here,’ he said. The government owns 49% of the shares while investors own 51%. Ends