Rwanda’s Trinity Metals Emerges as a Strategic Tin Supplier to the United States

By Metals Minerals Publication On May 15, 2025 0

Rwanda’s leading tin producer, is poised to become a significant supplier of tin to the United States, aligning with Washington’s strategy to diversify critical mineral sources away from traditional suppliers like China. This development underscores Rwanda’s growing role in the global supply chain for essential minerals.

Trinity Metals: A Consolidated Mining Powerhouse

Established in May 2022, Trinity Metals is a joint venture formed by the merger of Piran Rwanda Ltd, Eurotrade International Ltd, and Rutongo Mines Ltd, with backing from TechMet. The company operates three major mining sites in Rwanda:

Rutongo Mines: Located 26 km north of Kigali, comprising six underground mines with an estimated 54,000 tonnes of recoverable tin.
Musha Mines: Situated 45 km from Kigali in the Eastern Province, producing tin and small quantities of coltan.
Nyakabingo Mine: Africa’s largest tungsten mine, also under Trinity’s operation.

These operations have significantly increased Rwanda’s tin production capacity, positioning Trinity Metals as a key player in the region’s mining sector.

US Investment in ESG Initiatives

In July 2024, Trinity Metals secured a $3.865 million technical assistance grant from the US International Development Finance Corporation (DFC). This funding is designated for environmental, social, and governance (ESG) projects across Trinity’s mining operations, including:

Baseline environmental and social impact assessments.
Employee skills development programs.
Implementation of an international standard Safety, Health, Environment, and Community (SHEC) Management System.
Integrated development planning for all mining concessions.
Planning for the rehabilitation of legacy tailings and rivers.

This partnership reflects the US commitment to building resilient and sustainable critical mineral supply chains in Africa.

Strategic Importance for the US

Tin is a vital component in various technologies, including electronics and renewable energy systems. The US aims to reduce dependence on Chinese-dominated supply chains for critical minerals. Trinity Metals’ operations in Rwanda offer a conflict-free and ethically sourced alternative, aligning with US interests in securing diverse and reliable mineral sources.

Peter Geleta, CEO of Trinity Metals, emphasized the significance of this development:

“The Western world is realizing the need for alternative supply chains for critical minerals. Rwanda can play a huge role in providing ethically sourced tin, essential for the green revolution.”

Rwanda’s Commitment to Responsible Mining

Rwanda has been recognized for its efforts to promote responsible and conflict-free sourcing of minerals. The government’s implementation of reforms and adherence to international standards have created an environment conducive to sustainable mining operations. This commitment enhances Rwanda’s reputation as a trustworthy source in the global market.