In the heart of East Africa, Rwanda is rapidly emerging as a key player in the extractive industries sector, with a vibrant mining and quarrying industry engaging approximately 120,000 hardworking men and women. Behind this growth lies a story of resilience, collaboration, and social justice championed by the Rwanda Extractive Industry Workers Union (REWU). Since its establishment in 2014, REWU has been a steadfast advocate for workers’ rights, unity, and sustainable development within Rwanda’s vital extractive sector.
A Beacon of Social Dialogue and Worker Representation
REWU’s extensive experience in organizing, mobilizing, and sensitizing workers across mines, quarries, and related cooperatives speaks volumes about its pivotal role in fostering social dialogue with industry stakeholders. With a deep understanding of the sector’s complexities, REWU acts as a bridge between workers and employers, ensuring that their voices are heard, their rights protected, and their interests served.
Affiliated at national and international levels—including to CESTRAR, the Central de Syndicats des Travailleurs au Rwanda; the National Commission of Human Rights (NCHR); the COSOC – GL coalition fighting against illegal exploitation of natural resources in the Great Lakes region; IndustriALL Global Union; and the Building Wood Workers International Union (BWI)—REWU exemplifies the power of solidarity and international cooperation in advocating for social justice.
Building a Unified and Strong Workforce
At its core, REWU’s mission is to bring together workers in the extractive industries to defend their socio-professional interests, foster unity, and promote solidarity. The union’s objectives are multifaceted: advocating for fair labor practices, ensuring enforcement of social legislation and collective agreements, and working diligently to eliminate worst forms of child labor. These efforts are vital to creating a fair, safe, and equitable workplace environment where workers’ rights are upheld.
Furthermore, REWU actively contributes to decision-making processes that affect workers and their families. By engaging with industry players—such as the Rwanda Mining Association (RMA), Rwanda Quarry Association (RQA), government agencies, and public administrations—the union aims to influence policies and practices that promote good labor standards, social justice, and economic sustainability.
Championing Social Justice and Democratic Values
An essential part of REWU’s vision is to promote democracy and social justice within the companies and industries it serves. The union advocates for equitable treatment, respect for collective bargaining rights, and transparency from employers. Its efforts are integral to Rwanda’s broader development agenda, ensuring that economic growth translates into tangible benefits and improved livelihoods for workers in the extractive industry.
Through these initiatives, REWU aims not only to safeguard workers’ rights but also to contribute to Rwanda’s ongoing efforts to combat illegal resource exploitation and promote responsible, sustainable industry practices that benefit the nation as a whole.
A Key Partner in Rwanda’s Development Journey
The strategic partnerships cultivated by REWU with the Ministry of Public Services and Labour (MIFOTRA), Rwanda Mines, Petroleum, and Gas Board (RMB), provinces, districts, and industry associations, position it as a key stakeholder in Rwanda’s sustainable development trajectory. These collaborations ensure that workers’ issues remain central to national policies and industry standards, helping shape a more inclusive and resilient economy.
Looking Ahead: A Future Built on Unity, Justice, and Development
As Rwanda continues to harness its natural resources for economic growth, the role of organizations like REWU becomes ever more critical. Through its unwavering commitment to defending workers’ rights, promoting social justice, and fostering a culture of dialogue and cooperation, REWU exemplifies the transformative power of strong labor unions in shaping a better future for all.
By championing sustainable industry practices, advocating for fair treatment, and strengthening the social fabric of Rwanda’s extractive sector, REWU is not only empowering workers but also contributing significantly to the nation’s prosperity, social cohesion, and global reputation.
Supporting Workers, Building Rwanda — Together.
