Uganda has renewed its commitment to transforming the mining sector through increased investment, value addition and responsible exploitation of the country’s mineral resources.
The commitment was made at the close of the 15th Annual Mineral Wealth Conference 2026, where stakeholders discussed measures to strengthen Uganda’s mining industry and increase its contribution to the economy.
The Minister of State for Energy and Mineral Development, Hon. Phiona Nyamutoro, said minerals currently contribute about 2.2 percent to Uganda’s GDP, noting that government is working to unlock the sector’s potential.
She highlighted ongoing efforts to improve mineral licensing, expand access to financing, formalise artisanal and small-scale mining, strengthen environmental compliance and promote value addition.
Nyamutoro also reaffirmed the role of the Uganda National Mining Company in promoting commercial participation, value addition and partnerships with investors.
She said the recommendations from the conference will form part of the Ministry’s working agenda, with progress expected to be reviewed at the next edition of the conference.
The Minister further pointed to the need for stronger geological data, improved analytical laboratories, greater participation of Ugandans across the mining value chain and responsible mine closure practices.
Uganda’s High Commissioner to Tanzania, Amb. (Rtd) Col. Fred Mwesigye, commended the Uganda Chamber of Energy and Minerals for bringing together stakeholders from Uganda, Africa and beyond.
Drawing on experiences between Uganda and Tanzania, Mwesigye called for increased regional cooperation, technology transfer, value addition and shared infrastructure to help African countries derive greater economic benefits from their mineral resources.
He said strengthening the sector could support investment, industrialisation and create more opportunities for young people across the continent.
