The Minister of State for Mineral Development, Hon. Phiona Nyamutoro, has concluded a 3-day mines inspection exercise across Central, Western, and Kigezi regions. The exercise aimed at strengthening compliance, promoting sustainable practices, and enhancing value addition in Uganda’s mineral sector.
On 6th August 2025, the Minister inspected Kisita Gold Mine and artisanal mining operations in Kitanda, Kasanda District. She urged miners to adopt mercury-free processing methods, uphold health and safety standards, and directed Kitanda miners to nominate 28 association leaders for a harmonisation meeting at her office—a prerequisite for applying for an Artisanal Mining License as a unified team.
The Minister then visited Devki Steel Mills (U) Ltd in Rubanda on 7th August, where she inspected ongoing iron ore exploration. While the company highlighted high compensation costs as a challenge, Hon. Nyamutoro stressed the project’s long-term benefits and called on local leaders to support timely delivery of results.
On 8th August, she inspected H5 Resources Company Ltd at Mwerasandu mine in Ntungamo District. Licensed in 2023, the company is developing a tin mining project targeting up to 200 tons of concentrate in 2025 and 4,000 tons annually by 2028. She pledged government support in addressing challenges such as unstable power supply and artisanal encroachment.
The Minister also toured Shaft Sinkers Ltd (“Kitaka Mine”) in Ibanda District, licensed to mine galena and gold with a planned USD 5 million investment. She reiterated government’s commitment to value addition, community engagement, and responsible mining.
