(Ecofin Agency) - In 2017, Rwandan mineral exports generated $373 million, reflecting an increase by more than 100% compared to the previous year. This was reported by Reuters which quoted Francis Gatare (photo), CEO of Rwanda Mines, Petroleum and Gas Board (RMPGB).

Speaking at a meeting with industry players in Kigali yesterday June 5, he indicated that revenues in 2017 were "fantastic". The feat was “driven by very strong commodity prices on global market, good prices of new commodities particularly gold and gemstone”.

Mr. Gatare believes that revenues could further increase to $600 million in 2019 as the country plans to set two smelters to help develop minerals such as tin and coltan,

Louis-Nino Kansoun