The National Mining Company (NMC) inaugurated its new Board of Directors today at Petroleum House in Entebbe, marking a significant move towards advancing Uganda’s commercial interests in the mineral sector. The new board is expected to enhance national participation in mining while fostering partnerships with the private sector to increase revenue and align mineral development with Uganda’s broader economic goals.
Modeled on the structure of the Uganda National Oil Company (UNOC), which manages state interests in petroleum, the NMC was established to strengthen the government’s commercial presence in mining. The board, led by Chairperson James Mukasa Ssebugenyi and Vice Chairperson James Byagaba, includes experts from diverse backgrounds, including John Fisher, Agnes Alaba, Francis Twinamatsiko, Dr. Kevin Aanyu, Dr. Alex Kwatampora Binego, and Wilfred Kokas. Together, they aim to expand Uganda’s mineral exports and boost its standing in global mineral markets.
Irene Batebe, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development, welcomed the new board, highlighting their role in improving transparency, regulatory oversight, and accountability across the sector. She noted the government’s commitment to adding value to minerals by banning raw exports to stimulate local processing and economic growth.
Minister of State for Minerals, Phiona Nyamutoro, underscored the benefits of keeping more of the mineral value chain within Uganda, which could create jobs and support local economies. Nyamutoro also highlighted the role of modern mining practices in promoting sustainable development.
Despite the promising outlook, the mining sector faces financial challenges. For the 2023/24 fiscal year, only 24.2% of the allocated Shs 57.33 billion for the Mineral Development Programme had been disbursed by December 2023. Nevertheless, the program has seen progress, including reviewing 174 mineral license applications and raising Shs 10.34 billion in licensing fees and royalties.
Artisanal mining, which still relies on outdated methods, remains widespread. To address this, the NMC board aims to introduce better equipment, training, and technologies to improve productivity and safety standards.
At a recent meeting on responsible mineral sourcing, Col. Edith Nakalema, head of the State House Investors Protection Unit, emphasized the sector’s potential for economic growth and called for responsible practices to maximize its benefits for Uganda.
