Topic
Mining in Rwanda
About: Mining in Rwanda is a research topic. Over the lifetime, 2 publications have been published within this topic receiving 8 citations.
Papers
1 Apr 2013
TL;DR: In this article, the effect of different fertilizers on plant nutrient uptake and biomass production of soybean was evaluated in a greenhouse pot experiment using pegmatite substrate alone and a pegmatitic-Lixisol Bt mixture.
Abstract: Large areas of the Gatumba Mining District (GMD) in Rwanda are covered by Technosols (pegmatite or pegmatite-soil mixtures) resulting from coltan (Colombite and Tantalite) mining activities. These substrates are very poor in total and available plant nutrient contents and are therefore low in soil productivity. Due to agricultural land shortage in Rwanda, almost all the available land is farmed. The present study was conducted to evaluate the effect of different fertilizers on plant nutrient uptake and biomass production of soybean. A greenhouse pot experiment using pegmatite substrate alone and a pegmatite-Lixisol Bt mixture was conducted in a complete randomized design (CRD). Tithonia diversifolia biomass (T) was applied at 5 tonnes (t) dry matter (DM) ha -1
10 citations
1 Jan 2016
TL;DR: In this article, the authors discuss mining in the Rutsiro area (western Rwanda), which involves using a stream of water in which the minerals are washed, and illustrate how the mining of 3T minerals provides positive business opportunities for the local population, while it has negative impacts on the environment.
Abstract: Rwanda is a central African country that is relatively rich in 3T minerals (tungsten, tin, and tantalum) which are necessary for electrical engineering products. These minerals are very important for overall Rwandan exports because of the heightened demand for them in global markets. Mineral mining in Rwanda is conducted mainly as artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM). This type of mining without mechanization can mostly be found in developing countries. This chapter discusses ASM in the Rutsiro area (western Rwanda), which involves using a stream of water in which the minerals are washed. It illustrates how the mining of 3T minerals provides positive business opportunities for the local population, while it has negative impacts on the environment. Problems with erosion that deflect the flow of rivers and increase the levels of suspension and sedimentation in river basins are the biggest environmental problems connected with ASM. Despite these problems, ASM provides a possibility of increasing economic growth and securing the basic needs of local inhabitants. The earnings of the workers who mine in small groups are higher compared to incomes earned in the agricultural sector. The acquired incomes contribute to improved living standards of the workers. Higher available incomes also create opportunities for businesses in areas such as trade, transport, construction, and provision of services. Thus, the economic importance of mining for Rwanda‘s economy is evident. In 2013, Rwanda exported almost 2,500 tons of tantalum—equivalent to 28 % of the global production. Mining had a share of 30 % in the total exports during the last 5 years, amounting to a value of about US$ 230 million per year.
3 citations
Performance Metrics
| Year | Papers |
|---|---|
| 2016 | 1 |
| 2013 | 1 |