Officials from the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development held a stakeholder consultation and sensitization workshop at the Busia district headquarters to inform artisanal miners about the new mining regulations and acts. These consultations will take place nationwide, beginning in eastern Uganda.
Phiona Nyamutoro, the State Minister of Energy and Mineral Development (Minerals), highlighted the significant role artisanal and small-scale miners (ASM) have played in the gold sector, noting that their activities have led to key discoveries such as the Tiira and Alupe gold mines. She emphasized that if properly regulated, ASM can contribute substantially to local economic development.
“I am particularly passionate about the inclusion and empowerment of youth, women, and marginalized groups in our economy. The ASM sector offers significant opportunities for these groups to participate in and benefit from our country’s natural resources,” she stated.
Agnes Alaba, the commissioner of mines, acknowledged the contributions of the ASM sector in enhancing the livelihoods of people both directly and indirectly. She also noted that ASM is a crucial driver of economic growth for the country. The ministry has implemented strategies to foster the sector’s development.
“We conducted a benchmarking trip for ASM miners to Tanzania to learn best practices and foster good relations between ASM and other mining entities,” she mentioned.
In 2022, the Ugandan government passed the Mining and Minerals (Licensing) Regulations 2023. These regulations prioritize top-bidding mining companies for major mining sites while assigning starting sites to ASM miners