Rwanda warns miners as heavy rains raise risks underground

By The Inspirer.

Rwanda has ordered mining companies and cooperatives to tighten safety measures as heavy rains increase the risk of flooding, erosion and ground instability at mining sites.

The Rwanda Mines, Petroleum and Gas Board (RMB) issued the warning on Wednesday, September 9, urging mining operators to take preventive action rather than wait for accidents to happen.

The authority said mines must be prepared for the dangers that come with heavy rainfall, particularly underground operations where water can enter workings and make conditions unsafe for workers.

One of the key requirements is that every underground mine must have protection to prevent rainwater from entering.

RMB also said underground mines must have at least two exit routes so workers can escape quickly in case of an emergency.

Mines without two escape routes should not operate during periods of heavy rainfall, the authority warned.

Daily checks before miners enter

RMB has also tightened requirements for daily safety inspections.

Before mining activities begin each day, a technician responsible for operations must inspect the site and determine whether it is safe for workers to enter.

The results must be recorded in a daily report and kept at the offices of the company or cooperative.

The authority said operators must pay particular attention to places where rainwater could enter underground workings and areas where soil could become unstable.

Heavy rain can cause erosion and weaken the ground, increasing the danger of collapses and other accidents.

Protective equipment is mandatory

RMB reminded mining operators that protecting workers requires more than securing the mine itself.

All miners must use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) while at work.

The authority also called on operators that do not already have one to establish a rescue team capable of responding quickly when an accident occurs.

The measures come as the Rwanda Meteorology Agency forecasts heavy rainfall during the current rainy season.

RMB said mining operators must therefore prepare in advance for possible flooding, erosion and ground movement.

The authority also urged stronger action against illegal mining, saying unregulated operations can expose workers to greater risks and make emergency response more difficult.

For mining companies and cooperatives, the message is clear: safety cannot be treated as a response to accidents.

RMB said safety must be part of everyday mining operations, with operators expected to identify and address risks before workers enter the mines.

With heavy rains expected, the authority is urging miners to take extra care of the people working underground — where a sudden flow of water or movement of unstable ground can quickly turn a normal working day into a life-threatening situation.