Uganda has taken center stage in shaping Africa’s mineral future by hosting the 17th Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Organisation of African Geological Surveys (OAGS).
At the strategic three-day gathering held at the Imperial Golf View Hotel, in Kampala, Hon. Dr. Canon Ruth Nankabirwa Ssentamu, Minister for Energy and Mineral Development (MEMD), issued a strong call for continental unity, data sharing, and investment in geoscience infrastructure.
The Minister emphasised the importance of the extractives sector to Uganda’s national ambition to scale its economy tenfold, from USD 50 billion in 2025 to USD 500 billion by 2040.
Nankabirwa reaffirmed Uganda’s commitment to advancing Africa’s geoscience agenda, highlighting the country’s vast natural resource endowment and dynamic young workforce. She pointed out that the global shift towards green technology presents an immense opportunity for Africa’s industrial transformation, noting that Uganda is rich in critical minerals such as: Lithium, Graphite, Cobalt, Nickel and Rare Earth Elements “Uganda’s strategy is not limited to extraction; the country is prioritising geological mapping, high-resolution airborne geophysical surveys, mineral quantification, and efforts toward value addition to ensure these resources contribute meaningfully to industrialisation,” Hon. Nankabirwa said.
She noted that efforts are also underway to formalise the artisanal mining sector, ensuring greater accountability and safety.
Speaking on behalf of the Ministry of Energy Permanent Secretary, Ms. Agnes Alaba, Commissioner for Mines, underscored the technological advancements that position Uganda as a prime mining destination. She revealed that Uganda has invested heavily in modern geoscience infrastructure, achieving:
- Full Airborne Geophysical Coverage which provides comprehensive data on mineral potential across the country.
- Updated Geological Maps and Expanded Geochemical Databases which offer detailed, accessible information for investors.
- Fully Digital Mining Cadastre and Registry System, a digital leap that positions Uganda as one of Africa’s most attractive and well-studied mining destinations, ensuring transparency and efficiency in licensing.
The OAGS AGM is a crucial platform for regional and international collaboration. The meeting convened leaders from African geological surveys, alongside major global partners, including: The EU Geological Surveys, China Geological Survey, plus various development agencies and regional technical partners.
Delegates, including OAGS President Dr. Rokhaya Samba Diene, are spending the three days sharing data, technology, and best practices for strengthening Africa’s mineral governance and investment climate. Discussions will focus on technological innovation, capacity building, and regional collaboration, concluding with a field excursion to selected mineral field sites in Uganda.
By hosting this strategic gathering, Uganda reinforces its role as a leading voice in determining the trajectory of Africa’s extractives sector, ensuring that continental resources are managed sustainably and strategically to achieve ambitious economic transformation goals.