Analytical Fingerprint (AFP) in Rwanda

Since 2007, Rwanda has been among the focus countries for the on-going development of the Analytical Fingerprint (AFP) method and the associated implementation framework, initially through a stand-alone research project and, since 2011, integrated into the regional German cooperation framework with the ICGLR.

The AFP method aims to constrain the origin of 3T mineral concentrates based on the statistical evaluation and comparison of geochemical and mineralogical concentrate samples. A comprehensive database is supposed to store these mine site characteristics of “reference samples” that may later be optionally compared to “control samples” taken along the supply chain (e.g., during an audit), similar to a DNA test.
The practical reference sampling framework including sampling standards and sampler accreditation procedures has been developed in Rwanda from 2010 to 2012. RNRA/GMD is the responsible entity for reference sampling of Rwandan mines, through employees individually accredited and logistically supported by BGR (who is also continuously monitoring the whole process). More than 500 reference samples from Rwandan mine sites have been collected since then.

A preparation laboratory to prepare polished sections from concentrates (AFP reference samples) was opened at the GMD office in Kigali in July 2013 and has been in operation ever since. A laboratory management concept was developed by GMD and BGR, aiming for a twin-use of the laboratory for AFP and non-AFP purposes and involving a dedicated GMD technician to run the lab.

The AFP petrographic laboratory at the GMD facilities in Kigali Source: BGR

Scientific lab applications besides AFP refer to the preparation of polished or thin sections for petrographic study of rocks and ores. To this end, the laboratory includes a Leica microscope and associated camera system for research purposes. Reflected and transmitted light microscopy courses were offered to GMD counterparts.