These pits, left unrestored after mineral and quarry extraction activities, pose significant risks to public safety and the environment.
Mineral extraction in Rwanda began in the 1930s under colonial rule. However, many mining sites were neglected after operations ceased, leaving behind hazardous pits that continue to threaten lives and livestock.
According to Francis Kamanzi, the CEO of RMB, a recent nationwide inspection revealed that these abandoned sites include both quarries and mining pits.
The study also showed that some of these sites were abandoned decades ago, while others were recently neglected by private companies and individuals, including those who mined illegally or failed to comply with restoration obligations.
Kamanzi explained that the neglected sites can be broadly categorized into four groups: those abandoned during colonial times, those exploited illegally in recent years, quarries handed over to private companies with valid permits but left unrestored, and pits neglected by licensed miners.
He noted that many of these sites are located near residential areas, exacerbating the risks of injury to people and livestock.
While some progress has been made, such as the restoration of 53 sites through community efforts, a significant amount of work remains.
Each site will require a thorough environmental assessment before any rehabilitation begins to ensure that restoration methods are tailored to the specific conditions of the site.
Kamanzi emphasized that this process cannot be rushed, as it involves detailed planning and coordination with various stakeholders.
RMB has identified that 367 sites can be cleared using machinery, 253 will be addressed through community efforts, and 304 will be cleaned using a combination of both methods, while 70 sites do not require any restoration.
Kamanzi stated that individuals or companies who abandoned their sites must take responsibility and fulfill their legal obligation to restore the land to its original state.
Parliamentarian Germaine Mukabalisa expressed concern that the financial guarantees provided by miners for site restoration are often insufficient.
She proposed the establishment of a dedicated state fund to cover restoration costs in cases where the guarantees fall short.
Mukabalisa argued that miners must be held to stricter standards to ensure they honor their commitments, rather than leaving the burden on the government or local communities.
Kamanzi explained that current regulations require miners to conduct environmental impact studies before beginning operations, which include plans for site restoration.
Additionally, miners are required to contribute 10% of the estimated restoration cost to the FONERWA fund.
However, many miners exploit loopholes by abandoning sites under the pretext of returning to extract remaining minerals, leaving environmental damage unaddressed.
IGIHE
