The State Minister for Minerals in the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development, Phiona Nyamutoro, has directed authorities to crack down on illegal mining at the Kilwa mineral site in Nyarubuye and Busanza sub-counties in Kisoro District following growing concerns over the unlawful exploitation of the area's mineral resources.
The directive was issued during an inspection of the site, which the minister conducted alongside the Member of Parliament for Bufumbira North, Fortunate Habyara Gatare, Kisoro Resident District Commissioner (RDC), district leaders, officials from the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development, and security personnel.
During the inspection, Nyamutoro observed evidence of illegal mining activities and assured residents that the government would restore order and ensure that mineral resources are exploited legally.
She also assured residents of Nyarubuye and Busanza that the ministry would identify a qualified and licensed investor to develop the mineral site while ensuring that surrounding communities benefit from the available mineral resources.
"Only individuals occupying the designated mining area will be compensated, while those living outside the affected zone will not be eligible for compensation," Nyamutoro said.
She added that the successful investor would be required to work closely with local miners to promote community participation and ensure that local residents benefit from mining activities.
"The investor awarded the mining licence will be required to work closely with local miners to promote community participation and shared benefits," she said.
Bufumbira North Member of Parliament Fortunate Habyara Gatare urged residents to cooperate with government agencies in ensuring that the district's mineral resources are managed legally and in a way that benefits the entire community.
Kisoro District LCV Chairperson Richard Ndyana condemned illegal mining in the district, saying that despite the area's mineral wealth, neither the local communities nor the district local government had benefited from the ongoing illegal activities.
He called for stronger enforcement measures to ensure that mineral resources contribute to local development and national economic growth.