One of the main objectives of ITSCI Rwanda in 2022 was to reactivate and create new District Mining Task Forces (DMTFs) that includes civil society organisations. The DMTFs play an important role in mineral supply chain risk management. They are composed of local authorities, security services and the Rwanda Mines, Petroleum and Gas Board (RMB).
As a Partner, ITSCI alerts DMTFs on issues and concerns in the 3T sector, trains members and participates in joint field visits when necessary. In July 2022, for instance, ITSCI, RMB and the civil society organisation Action Pour l’Éducation et la Défense des Droits Humains (APEDDH) organised three workshops in different Rwandan districts. The objective was to discuss the main challenges and issues in the mining sector and strengthen partners, companies and miners understanding and practice of due diligence. The workshop also aimed to foster collaboration between the DMTF and APEDDH.
From 6 to 8 July, following the establishment of a new DMTF in Gicumbi district, the joint team organised training sessions on traceability and ITSCI procedures for mining operators and miners’ representatives. From 12 to 14 July, ITSCI and the DMTF conducted meetings with APEDDH in Kamonyi district and visited Rukoma Mining Cooperative and Comika following reports of informal mining, increased safety issues at a non ITSCI site, non-compliance from suppliers with traceability procedures, and Occupational health and safety (OHS) issues. ITSCI explained the traceability procedures and safety measures to company representatives and recommended visits from the DMTF to the informal sites.
ITSCI continues to advocate for the establishment of more DMTFs throughout Rwanda and continuous collaboration with civil society organisations.