Rwanda has partnered with Almonty Industries to develop its tungsten sector, securing a 25% stake in a joint venture focused on processing and local value addition.
The Rwandan government and Almonty Industries have sealed a strategic deal aimed at expanding the nation’s tungsten production—a critical metal widely used in advanced technologies and industrial manufacturing.
Under the agreement announced on September 14, the Rwandan state secures a 25% stake in Almonty Rwanda[cite: 1]. In exchange, Kigali is contributing the Shyorongi exploration license alongside a specialized mineral processing permit, while Almonty retains the remaining 75% equity[cite: 1].
Sourcing, Processing, and Local Value Addition
The initiative will initially focus on sourcing raw ore, pre-concentrates, and tailings from local license holders, including artisanal and small-scale miners[cite: 1]. Operational plans outline the deployment of a mobile processing plant before constructing a centralized, large-scale facility[cite: 1]. For Rwanda, the overarching objective is to capture greater value domestically rather than relying solely on the export of raw minerals[cite: 1].
A Strategic Global Commodity
Prized for its exceptional heat resistance and high density, tungsten plays an essential role in high-tech tools, electronic devices, and industrial machinery[cite: 1]. This partnership comes as international markets increasingly seek to diversify supply chains for critical minerals[cite: 1].
(Source: Almonty Industries / Business Wire, September 14, 2026)[cite: 1]