Kigali, May 15, 2024 –  RMB in collaboration with the European Union delegation to Rwanda held an insightful roundtable discussion with key stakeholders. Held under the theme of "Automotive Value Chains in Rwanda," with a particular focus on the mining sector, the roundtable provided a platform for an in-depth exchange on optimizing the benefits of Rwanda's mining industry for the global automotive industry.

The discussions emphasized the strategic importance of Rwanda's rich portfolio of critical raw materials, which includes tin, tantalum, tungsten (the 3Ts), beryllium, lithium, and rare earth elements (REEs). These materials are essential for the production of modern automotive components, especially in the context of the burgeoning electric vehicle (EV) market.

The CEO of RMB highlighted the sector's readiness to contribute to the global green transition. The mining sector's alignment with sustainable practices and its role in supporting the production of electric vehicles were underscored as pivotal in the shift towards a circular economy.

The critical materials that Rwanda possesses are integral to the global automotive industry in several ways. Tin, tantalum, and tungsten are vital for manufacturing electronic components and various automotive parts. Beryllium is used in the production of lightweight, high-strength alloys, which are crucial for reducing vehicle weight and enhancing fuel efficiency. Lithium, a key component of lithium-ion batteries, is essential for the energy storage systems of electric vehicles. Rare earth elements are indispensable in the production of high-performance permanent magnets used in electric motors, contributing to more efficient and powerful EVs.

Unlocking the full potential of Rwanda's mining resources is poised to contribute to the country’s sustainable development and technological advancements thereby bolstering the country's contribution to the global automotive industry and supporting the transition to a green economy.