Stakeholders in Uganda’s mining sector have called on the government to establish an independent body known as the Mining Authority of Uganda, saying it would strengthen regulation and accelerate the industry’s growth.
The call was made during a stakeholders’ meeting of artisanal and small-scale miners held in Kampala.
Speaking at the meeting, Humphrey Asiimwe, the chief executive officer of the Chamber of Energy and Minerals, said the mining sector needs an independent regulator similar to the Petroleum Authority of Uganda (PAU).
According to Asiimwe, such an institution would help address many of the challenges facing the sector.
“We should have our own authority that provides technical support to people involved in mining. We should have our own regulator to issue licences and oversee the industry,” Asiimwe said.
He added that the sector is struggling with illegal operators and other challenges that could be handled more effectively by an independent authority.
Asiimwe noted that in several countries, mining authorities provide specialised training and continuous professional development for people working in the industry, even after they graduate from mining schools.
He said this support helps improve skills and boosts productivity in the sector.
Kenneth Asiimwe, the chief executive officer of the Uganda Association of Artisanal and Small-Scale Miners, said the association’s role is to ensure that miners operate responsibly and comply with licensing requirements.
He said the association strongly supports the creation of a Mining Authority.
“We are advocating for the authority because it will help ensure that the sector develops in the right direction,” he said.
Dr Susan Nakanwagi also backed the proposal, arguing that an independent mining authority would attract more investors to Uganda.
She said investors are more likely to invest in countries where there is a clear and well-organised regulatory system.
“Investors prefer operating in areas where there is a proper system that supports and regulates their activities,” Nakanwagi said.
Uganda already has a legal framework governing the mining sector through the Mining and Minerals Act, which was enacted in 2022.
However, stakeholders argue that establishing an independent Mining Authority would be an important additional step towards improving regulation, increasing investment and promoting the sustainable growth of the sector.
They believe the authority would mark a major milestone in Uganda’s efforts to develop its mining industry and unlock its full economic potential.
