Chinese mining companies operating in Rwanda have pledged to strengthen environmental protection, workers’ rights, community engagement and responsible business practices after signing a new initiative aimed at promoting greener and more sustainable mineral-resource development.
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The initiative was voluntarily launched by the China Chamber of Commerce together with the China Mining Association, the China Nonferrous Metals Industry Association, the China Iron and Steel Association, and other institutions and industry enterprises.
It was released and entered into force at the China Mining Conference and Exhibition in Tianjin, China, on September 10.
Rwanda will be the first country outside China where Chinese mining enterprises have collectively responded to the initiative since it entered into force.
The initiative focuses on compliance with laws, regulations and national policies; observance of business ethics and fair competition; fulfilment of social responsibilities and stronger community engagement; protection of employees’ rights and interests and promotion of career development; responsible procurement and supply-chain safeguards; environmental protection and the promotion of a green transition; and establishing appeal mechanisms and evaluation systems to ensure transparent communication.
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The Chinese Ambassador to Rwanda Gao Wenqi encouraged Chinese enterprises to strengthen engagement with local communities and Rwandan partners.
"We encourage Chinese enterprises to listen to local communities, work with Rwandan partners and turn responsibility into concrete action,” he said.
The Acting CEO of the Rwanda Private Sector Federation (PSF), Callixte Kanamugire, said Rwanda’s mining sector has significant potential but must be developed responsibly to create lasting value for the country.
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"We welcome the commitment of participating companies to comply with laws and regulations, protect the environment, safeguard occupational health and safety, respect local communities, and promote transparent and sustainable mining practices,” he said.
The private sector, he noted, must ensure that mineral development creates lasting value for Rwanda through local processing, employment, skills development and stronger participation of Rwandan businesses in the supply chain.