MIN4266 Seminars on Mining and Geology in Rwanda

1. 1     Brief description of aims and content

The module aims to provide students with practical understanding on the mining industry in Rwanda. It is organized as a seminar where students meet regularly to present and discuss recent geological and mining scientific papers. Some experienced people from industry and public institutions acquainted with Mining sector will be invited to give public talks on Mining issues.

1. 2     Learning Outcomes

Knowledge and Understanding

On completion of this module, students should be able to:

• Understand and describe mining methods used in Rwandan mining industry with some illustrative examples.
• Understand types, quantity and quality of mineral ores mined in Rwanda
• Have a clear historical perspective of geology and mining industry in Rwanda
• Know the government policy about Rwandan earth energy resources (peat, geothermal, methane gas).
• Understand processing technologies in mineral and quarry resources in Rwanda
• Know all institutions in charge of mining sector and their responsibilities (Rwanda Natural Resources, Ministry of Natural Resources, etc.)

Practical Knowledge/ Professional Skills

On completion of this module, students will be able to demonstrate the following skills:

• Assess and evaluate Mining methods used in Rwanda
• To identify areas of potential weaknesses in Geology and Mining industry in Rwanda and to propose corresponding pertinent solutions.
• Assimilate the key aspects of Mining Law and Regulations in Rwanda

Key Transferable Skills

On completion of the module, students will be able to:

• Develop the interest/ eagerness to provide support to the Rwandan Mining Sector
• Opening minded towards employment and other opportunities in connection with Mining Sector.
• Recognize the challenges of the Geology and Mining Sector and play a part in providing solutions.

1. 3 Indicative Content

Records on Rwandan and Regional Mining. Overview about Mining methods and techniques used in Rwanda. Rwandan mining policy. Government policy about earth energy resources (peat, geothermal, methane gas). Geological resources in Rwanda and in the region. Background information on the potential of the mining industry in Rwanda (This consists of information about prospective mineral ores based on various geochemical anomalies found). EDPRS and VISION 2020 strategic plans for developing Geology and Mining sector. Role of Geology and Mining sector in National economy. Mining Law and Regulations in Rwanda. Cassiterite mining in Rwanda. Wolfram mining in Rwanda. Gold mining in Rwanda. Coltan (tantalite) mining in Rwanda. Processing technologies in mineral and quarry resources in Rwanda. Environmental aspects of Mining in Rwanda. Major challenges in Geology and Mining Sector in Rwanda. Geology and mining scientific papers on Tin, Wolfram, Tungsten and Gold.