Mining Legal Expert Ministry of Natural Resources Kigali, Rwanda

The Government of Rwanda with support from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the World Bank (WB) is implementing the Strategic Capacity Building Initiative (SCBI). Official implementation of the SCBI began in November 2011 and the programme is set to run for up to four years from this date. The objective of the SCBI is to ‘build capacity and deliver government priorities’ at the same time. The ministry of Natural Resources (MINIRENA) is responsible for the full implementation of the SCBI in the mining sector.

 

At its core, the SCBI concentrates on ‘transfer of skills and knowledge’ from international experts to young professionals in Rwanda’s mining administration. The intension of government is that these young Rwandese women and men become experts themselves and contribute to improving the performance and efficiency of the sector with the ultimate aim of increasing revenue and the benefit to citizens from mining activities.

 

The mining sector is the country’s leading export earner, in spite of the need to address several capacity gaps. Last year alone (2011), mining export accounted for USD 164 million, more than tea and coffee export combined.

 

The GOR has taken several steps to set the conditions for progress. Mining sector development in Rwanda is transforming through increased privatisation, improvements in the legal and regulatory framework and a strong policy and strategy to chart the way forward. However, a number of factors still inhibit its full growth, including: (1) low skills, experience and exposure in various aspects of the mining sector; (2) limited capacity in monitoring and regulatory enforcement; (3) lack of knowledge and skills required to attract investment, (4) limited knowledge of geological reserves and, (5) limited understanding the economics of minerals and mining agreements.

 

It is within this context that government plan to recruit in key areas requiring capacity to build strong expertise and deliver on existing priorities.

 

 

MINING LEGAL EXPERT

 

Role and responsibilities

•          Develop legal framework as well as strengthening capacity to negotiate international mining agreements;

•          Develop procedures for tendering/auctioning of mining concessions;

•          Finalize the existing draft modal agreement for mining concessions;

•          Set up a strategic guide document for mining contracts negotiations;

•          Define strategies and mechanisms for prevention, mediation or eradication of conflict cases which may occur in the mining sector in Rwanda;

•          Design procedure to monitor and evaluate implementation of activities in compliance with the respect of the signed agreements;

•          Train local specialists and local authorities in legal issues in mining and in agreement formulation;

•          Mentoring and coaching Rwandans.

•          Keep a track record of delivery and transferring knowledge and skills

•          Submit regular reports to the supervising authority.

 

Qualifications

The candidate should at least have a Masters’ degree in Law with strong competencies in Mining Legislation. A minimum of 7 years professional experience is required in international recognized companies or institutions.

 

Professional Experience

•          Proven track record of designing effective mining / oil / gas legislation and regulation.

•          Good proven experience in negotiation and drafting of international mining agreements.

•          Good knowledge of the mining industry in East / Central Africa.

•          Ability to mentor young professionals.

•          Knowledge of international, regional and national natural resource initiatives.

•          Excellent command of oral and written communication skills in English. Knowledge of French is an advantage.

•          Excellent interpersonal skills.

•          Good reporting, computing and presentation skills.

•          Publication of article/book in field relevant to this position is a plus

 

Supervision and reporting arrangements

The expert will report directly to the Permanent Secretary of MINIRENA and the Head the Department of Mines and Geology.

 

Assignment duration

The duration of the assignment is for one year and the expert is expected to work full time in Kigali. There is a high possibility of contract extension. 

 

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The Government of Rwanda will provide a competitive salary to the successful candidate.

 

The application deadline: 06 January 2013.

 

Applications should also be sent to nimarto@gmail.com  and info@minirena.gov.rw

 

Application will include:

•                    Motivation letter;

•                    Curriculum Vitae (CV);

•                    Three referees with detailed addresses attached.

 

Kigali, on 27/11/2012

 

 

Caroline Kayonga

Permanent Secretary

Ministry of Natural Resources