Operated by Trinity Metals, the mine is Africa's leading tungsten producer and a cornerstone of Rwanda's ambitions to become a global hub for critical minerals.
Currently, Nyakabingo Mine employs over 1,800 people and has nearly doubled its tungsten output in the last three years.
Trinity Metals, formed in 2022, consolidated three historic Rwandan minesâ€"Nyakabingo, Rutongo, and Mushaâ€"into a single entity.
The company has transformed operations at each site. CEO Peter Geleta reported last year that Nyakabingo increased its monthly tungsten production from 29 to 100 tonnes, now contributing 8% of global tungsten supply.
'We've built a professional, international mining company capable of world-class output,' Geleta said.
President Kagame's tour of Nyakabingo comes amid broader efforts to position Rwanda as a reliable partner in the global critical minerals supply chain.
Just last month, the Rwandan government confirmed it is in talks with the United States over a potential deal that would grant Washington access to Rwanda's mineral resources.
'Yes, this is part of the discussions we are having with the U.S.,' Government Spokesperson Yolande Makolo confirmed.
The United States is seeking to diversify its sources of critical minerals, and Rwanda's growing output of tantalumâ€"a key component in electronics and automotive capacitorsâ€"makes it an attractive partner.
Rwanda currently ranks third globally in tantalum production, behind Australia and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The discussions were preceded by high-level diplomatic engagements. Early April, Massad Boulos, Senior Advisor to U.S. President Donald Trump on African Affairs, visited Nyakabingo Mine as part of his official trip to Rwanda.
On April 30, President Kagame also received Trinity Metals Chairman Shawn McCormick and his delegation to explore further investment and partnership opportunities in Rwanda's mining sector.
The growth of Rwanda's mining sector has been remarkable. Prime Minister Dr. Édouard Ngirente announced in March that mineral exports generated $1.7 billion in 2024, up from just $373 million in 2017. Gold led the way, bringing in $1.5 billion, followed by coltan, cassiterite, and wolfram.
Dr. Ngirente credited the performance to modernised mining practices, targeted investments, and a shift toward value addition.
'Production has increased significantly, and we are discovering new minerals like lithium and beryllium, which are in high demand globally,' the Prime Minister noted.
Wycliffe Nyamasege
Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/president-kagame-visits-nyakabingo-tungsten-mine-photos
