Rulindo, March 26, 2024 – CEO Francis Kamanzi recently conducted a tour of Rutongo Mines, which is a key part of Trinity Metals. The tour included discussions about the current operations and the strategic future development plans of the mine with its management team.

Rutongo Mines specializes in the mining of Tin (Cassiterite), making it the top cassiterite producer in Rwanda. It produces an average of 80 tons of cassiterite per month, with a production capacity expected to increase with subsequent development programs.

In the year 2023, the mine was responsible for 25.4% of Rwanda's total mineral production, indicating its significant role in the national mining industry.

The history of cassiterite mining at Rutongo dates to the 1920s, with the first extraction activities initiated by SOMUKI. The mining process transitioned to underground methods in the 1950s. Over the decades, the mine experienced several management changes, including takeovers by SOMIRWA in 1973 and REDEMI in 1989. The mine was privatized in 2007 and has since been managed by companies that eventually formed Trinity Metals in 2022, which now oversees its operations.

The geology of the Rutongo area is notable for its metamorphosed sedimentary rocks, including Quartzite, Sandstone, and Schist. The mine is located on a geological feature known as the "Rutongo anticline", with several faults mapped in the vicinity. These geological conditions have facilitated the formation of a hydrothermal system, leading to the development of quartz veins that are rich in cassiterite.

Trinity Metals implements sustainable mining practices in line with the sector’s vision towards sustainability. The company has made significant investments in enhancing skills and incorporating mechanization in its operations. These efforts are aimed at reducing environmental impacts and improving the efficiency and safety of mining activities.

As part of its commitment to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles, Rutongo Mines has implemented a comprehensive community development strategy. This strategy includes the establishment of two Early Childhood Development Centers (ECDs). These centers are designed to support female miners by providing a safe and nurturing environment for their infants while they are at work.

CEO Francis praised the initiatives undertaken by Trinity Metals and encouraged Rutongo Mines to enhance knowledge sharing. He highlighted the importance of peer learning among various stakeholders in the mining sector as a way to disseminate best practices and innovative solutions for community development and environmental management.

In line with its dedication to safety, Rutongo Mines has adopted a "zero accident" slogan. This reflects the mine's strong commitment to maintaining high standards of operational health and safety, aiming to prevent accidents and ensure the well-being of all its employees.

Trinity Metals, the parent company of Rutongo Mines, is recognized for operating the largest tungsten mine in Africa, the Nyakingo Mine, in addition to owning Rutongo Mines, which ranks among the top producers of cassiterite in Africa.

CEO looking at the vein inside the tunnel