Japan’s Mineral Resources Mission to Rwanda
2026/8/24
The Embassy of Japan in Rwanda hosted Japan’s delegation dedicated to the mining sector to Rwanda from August 18 to 20, 2026. The mission brought together representatives from Japanese companies and organizations to explore opportunities for cooperation in the mineral sector and strengthen economic ties between Japan and Rwanda.
During the mission, the delegation held discussions with Mr. Jean-Guy Afrika, CEO of the Rwanda Development Board (RDB), and Ms. Barbara Akaliza, Chief Geo-Hazard Officer (CGO) of the Rwanda Mines, Petroleum and Gas Board (RMB). The discussions focused on Rwanda’s mining sector, including investment opportunities, mineral processing and value addition, as well as responsible and traceable mineral supply chains.
During the mission, the delegation held discussions with Mr. Jean-Guy Afrika, CEO of the Rwanda Development Board (RDB), and Ms. Barbara Akaliza, Chief Geo-Hazard Officer (CGO) of the Rwanda Mines, Petroleum and Gas Board (RMB). The discussions focused on Rwanda’s mining sector, including investment opportunities, mineral processing and value addition, as well as responsible and traceable mineral supply chains.
The delegation also met with Mr. Antoine Kajangwe, Minister of Trade and Industry (MINICOM), and Mr. Virgile Rwanyagatare, Director General, Asia & the Pacific Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MINAFFET), exchanging views on strengthening economic relations between Japan and Rwanda and promoting cooperation in the mineral sector.
Welcoming the Japanese mission, Ms. Barbara Akaliza, CGO of RMB, stated:
“We are pleased to welcome the Japanese delegation and exchange views on opportunities within Rwanda’s mining sector. Rwanda offers a stable investment environment, growing opportunities in mineral processing and value addition, and a strong commitment to responsible and traceable mineral supply chains. We look forward to strengthening cooperation with Japanese partners in support of sustainable mineral development and shared economic growth.”
Welcoming the Japanese mission, Ms. Barbara Akaliza, CGO of RMB, stated:
“We are pleased to welcome the Japanese delegation and exchange views on opportunities within Rwanda’s mining sector. Rwanda offers a stable investment environment, growing opportunities in mineral processing and value addition, and a strong commitment to responsible and traceable mineral supply chains. We look forward to strengthening cooperation with Japanese partners in support of sustainable mineral development and shared economic growth.”
In addition to meetings with government officials and relevant institutions, the delegation visited several mining companies and their mining sites and facilities. The visits provided the delegation with first-hand insights into mining operations, mineral processing and the opportunities and challenges facing Rwanda’s mining industry.
Through discussions and site visits, the delegation explored potential areas for future investment and cooperation between Japanese and Rwandan stakeholders.
The Embassy of Japan will continue to support dialogue and cooperation between Japan and Rwanda in the mineral sector.
Through discussions and site visits, the delegation explored potential areas for future investment and cooperation between Japanese and Rwandan stakeholders.
The Embassy of Japan will continue to support dialogue and cooperation between Japan and Rwanda in the mineral sector.