“The Q3 release aligns with our efforts to reallocate resources from old priorities to key growth drivers. Our focus remains on promoting technical efficiency and ensuring service delivery at the lowest cost,” said Ggoobi.
During a stakeholder meeting at the Busoga Kingdom headquarters in Jinja on Monday, November 18, 2024, MEMD officials revealed that the project is in its final stages, with a consultant already procured and relocation plans underway.
"So, Kilembe Mines: the final, final, final signature is expected by November 1; that's when we shall have the signature," said Minister for Energy and Mineral Development, Ruth Nankabirwa, during the 13th Uganda Mineral Wealth Conference in Kampala.
The Energy Ministry has partnered with several organizations, including Planet Gold, Impact, and the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA), to gazette mining areas and license the miners. Artisanal miners are encouraged to form groups and apply for Artisan and Small-scale mining licenses at a fee of 1 million shillings.
John Bosco Bukya, the chairperson of Uganda Artisanal and Small-scale Miners’ Association says that despite the emphasis the government is putting on industrial mine development by foreigners, a significant share of Uganda’s mineral production and related sources of employment are widely attributed to Artisanal and Small Scale Miners. He is optimistic that this category can turn around the sector once given chance and supported.
In a statement Robert Kasande, the Ministry of Energy Permanent Secretary, said through the online system, companies and individuals would be able to submit applications online, undertake all other business processes online and view the status of their application in real-time.
