Rwanda Mines Petroleum and Gas Board (RMB) has called on mining operators to strengthen safety measures as heavy rains are expected to continue through May, according to forecasts from Rwanda Meteorological Agency (Meteo Rwanda). In a communiqué released on Monday, May 4, RMB warned that persistent rainfall increases the risk of accidents in mining sites and urged licence holders to strictly comply with safety regulations. ALSO READ: Meteo forecasts below average rainfall in May “The ongoing heavy rains increase the risk of accidents in mining areas. Operators must ensure strict adherence to safety guidelines,” RMB statement reads. The board directed companies and cooperatives to eliminate any hazards that could cause accidents and ensure that no work begins before a qualified mining technician inspects and confirms site safety. It further required daily inspections before operations began, with reports documented and kept at company or cooperative offices. ALSO READ: Two miners die in Gakenke mining accident RMB also reminded operators that all workers must wear personal protective equipment at all times, and that every employee must have a formal contract and valid work identification. “Workers must be properly protected and documented at all times,” the board said. Underground tunnels without emergency exits must be closed until safety requirements are met, RMB added. ALSO READ: Rutsiro: One killed, another injured after illegal mine collapses Operators were also urged to establish emergency response teams where they do not exist and to report any unresolved risks to relevant authorities for coordinated action. Such areas must be clearly marked and restricted. The board warned against activities that could encourage illegal mining within licensed concessions, saying this increases risks, especially during the rainy season when ground instability is higher. RMB said it will continue to provide technical support to mining operators to strengthen compliance and improve safety standards across the sector. Though rains expected in May are forecast to be slightly below the long-term mean (LTM), which ranges between 62mm and 250mm across the country, total rainfall is expected to vary between 50mm and 230mm depending on location. According to Meteo Rwanda’s outlook the western and northern parts of the country are expected to receive the highest rainfall amounts, ranging between 200mm and 230mm. This includes the districts of Burera, Musanze, Nyabihu, Ngororero, Karongi, Rusizi and Nyamasheke, with similar levels also expected in parts of Nyamagabe, Nyaruguru, Rutsiro and Rubavu. The City of Kigali and much of the central belt and parts of the southern region, are expected to record moderate rainfall between 150mm and 200mm. In contrast, eastern districts such as Nyagatare, Gatsibo, Kayonza, Rwamagana, Ngoma and Bugesera are likely to receive lower amounts ranging between 100mm and 150mm.
