Big Mining Company Ltd is a mineral extraction company that stands out for its commitment to professional standards. The company strictly follows Rwanda’s laws and regulations governing the mining sector while also focusing on internal growth, employee welfare, and the socio-economic development of the communities where it operates.
Strong Growth Since 2014
According to Mucyo Muhire Ange, Director of General Operations and Development at Big Mining Company Ltd, the company has made significant progress since its establishment in 2014.
He explained that the company started with limited equipment, a small workforce, and mostly traditional mining practices. Today, however, it has adopted modern technologies for advanced geological research and exploration of minerals such as coltan and cassiterite.
Currently, the company has a growing workforce, with 189 employees having received professional training related to their work. This progress demonstrates the company’s steady movement toward becoming one of the top five mining companies in Rwanda in terms of professional standards and operations in the near future.
“Without exaggeration, our company is located in Byimana Sector, Ruhango District, in the Southern Province,” he stated.
“We began our operations in 2014 with the objective of conducting professional mineral exploration and extraction in compliance with the requirements of the Rwanda Mines, Petroleum and Gas Board (RMB). Our achievements are evident in the various mineral deposits we have discovered.”
Workforce Development and Equal Opportunities
The company currently employs 540 workers, including 18% women, who perform the same duties as men and receive equal pay. Employees are paid on time and are also provided with meals during working hours.
Mucyo emphasized that investing in staff training has played a key role in improving productivity. He expressed appreciation to the Rwanda TVET Board (RTB) for supporting the training programs and providing certificates to workers who completed them.
Community Support Initiatives
Beyond its core mining operations, Big Mining Company Ltd actively contributes to local community development.
The company maintains 15 permanent workers dedicated to maintaining and repairing roads in the surrounding communities, helping ensure accessibility and transportation.
Additionally, the company supports local families through several initiatives:
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Providing community health insurance (Mutuelle de Santé) for more than 200 vulnerable households
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Constructing houses for families in need
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Supplying electricity to certain households to prevent unsafe overhead wiring without proper connections
Despite these achievements, the company still faces challenges such as limited electricity supply and road infrastructure constraints.
Environmental Protection and Rehabilitation
Environmental protection is another key priority for the company.
According to Uwamugira Anne, Environmental and Social Welfare Officer at Big Mining Company Ltd, the company implements strong environmental rehabilitation practices after mining activities.
Areas where minerals have been extracted are reforested and rehabilitated. So far, the company has planted more than 70,000 trees, along with grass and erosion-control structures to prevent soil degradation.
“All the forest you see around this area was planted after mining activities were completed,” she explained.
“In addition to planting trees, we plant grass and build erosion-control systems so that someone passing through might not even realize the land was previously mined.”
She added that the company’s goal is to maintain responsible mining operations while following the environmental guidelines and policies of the Government of Rwanda.
Skills Development for Workers
Many employees who received on-the-job training say the experience has significantly improved their professional skills and economic opportunities.
Jean Bosco Halerimana, who has worked with Big Mining for four years, said he joined the company without prior experience but has since gained valuable skills through training.
Today, he can assess mineral deposits and operate specialized mining equipment, skills that have increased his confidence and future career prospects.
“I have gained a lot from Big Mining,” he said. “Through this work I was able to buy land, acquire livestock, and invest in other personal projects.”
He also encourages young people not to fear working in the mining sector, emphasizing that it can be a reliable source of income and professional growth.
Empowering Women in Mining
Uwizeyimana Devota, who represents female employees at the company, also received professional training and now performs the same tasks as her male colleagues.
Before joining the mining sector, she earned a living weaving baskets, which generated very limited income.
“Sometimes I could spend an entire month weaving baskets without earning enough money,” she said.
“After joining Big Mining and receiving training alongside my male colleagues, I gained confidence and pride in my work.”
She now supervises a team of workers and represents other female employees within the company.
She encourages young women without jobs to avoid risky lifestyles and instead pursue opportunities like those offered at Big Mining, noting that the company provides stable employment and fair pay.
Another young worker, Nakure Yvette, aged 23, also trained on the job and expressed satisfaction with the company’s work environment. Employees benefit from health insurance, contributions to the EjoHeza national savings program, and access to an on-site medical clinic, including facilities dedicated to women.
A Growing Mining Company in Rwanda
Big Mining Company Ltd is one of Rwanda’s established mining companies, having built significant experience since its founding in 2014.
The company operates in Byimana Sector, Ruhango District, using modern equipment and employing over 540 workers, including 18% women.
Geological assessments indicate that the mining site contains sufficient mineral resources that could sustain extraction for more than 50 years, highlighting Rwanda’s strong potential in the mining sector.
The company continues to expand its operations while maintaining a commitment to professional mining practices, environmental sustainability, and community development.
Alphonse Uhagaze