EU and Rwanda Forge Strategic Partnership on Sustainable Raw Materials
Here is the agreement between the EU and Rwanda on the exploitation of raw materials. The traceability of minerals is not guaranteed. Only Rwanda's declarations count.
HASSAN BENYOUB 
On February 19, 2024, in Brussels, the European Union and the Republic of Rwanda signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish a strategic partnership focused on sustainable raw material value chains. This agreement aims to bolster cooperation in the development and management of crucial raw materials necessary for green and digital transitions.
Key Points of the Partnership
The MoU outlines several critical areas of cooperation:
- Focus Areas:
- Non-energy and non-agriculture raw materials essential for green and digital transitions.
- Coverage of the entire value chain from exploration to recycling.
- Sustainable Development:
- Commitment to Agenda 2030 and local value addition.
- Trade and Investment:
- Promotion of open and fair bilateral trade and investment in sustainable raw material value chains.
- ESG Standards:
- Adherence to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) standards in raw materials extraction and transformation.
Pillars of the Partnership
The partnership is founded on five main pillars:
- Integration of Sustainable Raw Material Value Chains:
- Ensuring a streamlined approach from raw material extraction to end-of-life recycling.
- Mobilization of Investments:
- Encouraging both public and private sector investments.
- Sustainable Production and Sourcing:
- Promoting responsible extraction and sourcing of raw materials.
- Waste Management:
- Special attention to waste management and environmental considerations.
- Noteworthy that 3% of Rwanda's GDP originates from the mining sector.
- Roadmap and Monitoring:
- Development of a comprehensive Roadmap within six months.
- Establishment of a dedicated Working Group to monitor progress.
Signing Ceremony and Key Figures
The MoU was signed by:
- Ms. Jutta Urpilainen: Commissioner for International Partnerships for the European Union.
- Mr. Vincent Biruta: Minister of Foreign Affairs for the Republic of Rwanda.
Alignment with Broader Strategies
This partnership aligns with:
- EU’s 2023 Proposal:
- European Critical Raw Materials Act.
- Rwanda’s National Strategy for Transformation:
- Aiming to mining sector revenues from USD 373 million in 2017 to USD 1.5 billion by 2024.
Legal and Financial Considerations
It is important to note:
- The agreement does not create any legal rights or obligations under international or domestic law.
- There is commitment of financing from either side.
Summary
In summary, the EU and Rwanda have embarked on a strategic partnership to enhance the sustainable development of raw materials essential for the green and digital transitions. The agreement focuses on various key areas, including sustainable development, trade and investment, and ESG standards. Built on five foundational pillars, the partnership aims to integrate sustainable raw material value chains, mobilize investments, promote responsible production and sourcing, and focus on waste management. A Roadmap and Working Group will be established to ensure progress and alignment with broader strategies such as the EU's European Critical Raw Materials Act and Rwanda's National Strategy for Transformation.
