The Minister explained that beyond the role of the Rwanda Mines, Petroleum and Gas Board (RMB) in setting policies, guidelines and regulatory frameworks for the mining sector, the Ministry of Local Government (MINALOC), together with other relevant institutions, plays a key role in ensuring proper governance and oversight of mining activities across the country.

He noted that the Government has adopted sustainable measures aimed at safeguarding citizens’ security, including strengthening security at mining sites and in areas where mineral deposits have been identified, alongside enhanced monitoring by local administrative entities.

According to the Minister, local authorities are responsible for ensuring that mining sites and surrounding areas do not pose security risks to nearby communities, as well as overseeing compensation processes where relocation of residents is required.

He added that local government structures are mandated to monitor, suspend and dismantle all mining activities carried out in violation of the law, with offenders being held accountable in accordance with existing regulations.

To mitigate risks associated with abandoned mining pits, the Minister said that districts have begun backfilling shallow pits through community work, while in collaboration with the Rwanda Mines, Petroleum and Gas Board, authorities continue to ensure that contractors restore mining sites upon completion of extraction, with legal action taken against those who fail to comply.

Addressing youth involvement, Minister Habimana emphasized that school dropouts, particularly young people living near mining areas, are encouraged to return to school, especially to technical and vocational training institutions. This is implemented through district youth centers, youth associations, volunteer networks and targeted awareness campaigns in mining-affected communities.

He further explained that districts, in collaboration with relevant stakeholders, are organizing miners including youth into cooperatives and providing capacity-building programs aimed at promoting a culture of self-reliance, discipline, ethical conduct and the fight against illegal mining.

The Minister also highlighted that the Ministry of Local Government is working with concerned institutions to relocate residents living in areas where minerals are discovered or actively mined, in order to enable safe and well-regulated mining operations. This approach also helps prevent residents from engaging in illegal mining and protects children from risks such as school dropout.

He concluded by reaffirming the Government’s commitment to strengthening these measures to ensure citizens’ safety while promoting sustainable and lawful exploitation of mineral resources.