Abstract

The contribution of the mining sector to Rwanda’s economic growth and development is very significant as the mining sector is the second to contribute to government GDP after tourism. The mining industry in Rwanda consists of both small-scale and medium-scale mining, each of which affects the environment however the country is working toward transforming it into large-scale mining. This paper summarizes some of the key environmental impacts associated with different stages of mine life in Ngororero Mining Company, one of the companies which provide high production of cassiterite and coltan. The primary data, as well as the secondary data, were collected including a review of the existing relevant pieces of literature, field visits and observation, interviews with mining operators, and workers in different aspects focusing on environmentalists. The findings showed that mining activities affect the environment in all its stages. However, the environment is highly affected in the absence of proper tailing management. The paper concluded by recommending the mining owners design the proper tailings management facilities.

Keywords:Environmental impact; Mining; Ngororero mining company; Tailings

Abbreviations:FDI: Foreign Direct Investments; EIA: Environmental Impact Assessment; NMC: Ngororero Mining Company; OHS: Occupational Health and Safety