Government has taken a major step towards Organising Uganda’s mining sector through new proposed regulations aimed at creating formal mineral markets and buying centers across the country.
The discussions took place during a two-day consultative workshop on the Mining and Minerals (Mineral Markets and Buying Centers) Regulations 2026, held at Speke Resort Munyonyo in Kampala. The meeting brought together key players in the mining industry to shape a more transparent and inclusive system.
Speaking at the workshop, Irene P. Bateebe, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development Uganda, said the establishment of mineral markets is central to Uganda’s socio-economic transformation.
She explained that the move will help formalize mineral trade, improve transparency, and increase government revenue, while ensuring that the country benefits more from its natural resources.
“We are building a system that will bring order, value, and dignity to every gram of gold, tin, and gemstone produced in Uganda,” Bateebe said.
Irene P. Bateebe, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development Uganda
She added that the initiative builds on existing frameworks such as the Mining and Minerals Act 2022 and supports national priorities under Vision 2040 and the National Development Plan.
According to Bateebe, formal mineral markets will not only create organised trading platforms but also open opportunities for job creation, value addition, and community development.
Commissioner for Mines Agnes Alaba said the markets will act as central hubs where buyers and sellers can safely transact, helping to protect miners, attract investors, and improve accountability in the sector.
Agnes Alaba Commissioner for Mines Ministry of Engery
She noted that the initiative will especially support artisanal and small-scale miners by linking them to formal markets and better prices.
Meanwhile, Loyola Karobwa, a senior legal officer at the ministry, warned that informal gold trading—often conducted in hotels—has led to rising cases of fraud, fake gold deals, and money laundering.
He said formal markets will reduce such risks by promoting traceability, certification, and ethical trading practices.
Stakeholders at the workshop agreed that with increasing global demand for minerals, Uganda stands to benefit more if the sector is well regulated and transparent.
The proposed regulations are expected to protect miners from exploitation, shield traders from fraud, and boost investor confidence, while positioning Uganda’s mining industry for sustainable growth.
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