• Trinity Metals and Nathan Trotter sign deal to export Rwandan tin to the US

• The move supports US efforts to reduce reliance on Chinese mineral supply

•  Rwanda’s mining sector generated $1.7 billion in 2024, led by 3T metals

Trinity Metals, a Rwandan mining company, has signed a letter of intent with US-based Nathan Trotter to establish a direct tin supply chain from Rwanda to the United States.

The agreement was signed on May 13, 2025, as part of broader US efforts to diversify mineral sourcing and counter Chinese dominance in Africa’s mining sector. The signing was attended by Kim Harrington, acting Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary at the US State Department’s Bureau of Energy Resources.

The Bureau described the project as one that supports industrial onshoring, national security, and economic growth in the US.

Trinity Metals, founded in 2022, operates Rwanda’s two largest tin mines, Rutongo and Musha, and the Nyakabingo mine, considered Africa’s most significant tungsten deposit. The company is majority-owned by Techmet, based in Dublin.

In June 2024, Trinity received a $3.86 million grant from the US International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) to support projects with social and environmental impact at its tin and tungsten operations.

The agreement follows increased engagement between US officials and Rwanda. In March, a delegation led by US congressman Ronny Jackson visited a Trinity mine. Days later, Massad Boulos, special advisor to Donald Trump, also toured the site.

Rwanda’s mining sector generated $1.7 billion in revenue in 2024, making up nearly 70% of the country’s total exports. The country is positioning itself as a regional hub for 3T minerals: tin, tungsten, and tantalum.