Commissioner for Mines, Ms. Agnes Alana, outlined key aspects of the new framework, describing the buying centers as one-stop hubs expected to attract both local and foreign investment while safeguarding investors and investments.
Kassanda Deputy Resident District Commissioner (RDC), Mike Ssegawa, has urged miners and all stakeholders in the minerals sector to embrace transparency and comply with the new Minerals Markets and Buying Centers regulations.
Ssegawa made the remarks during a high-level consultation workshop held at Bukuya Town Council in Kassanda District. The meeting attracted a wide range of participants, including RDCs, Chief Administrative Officers (CAOs), District Police Commanders (DPCs), district leaders, miners, gold dealers, and their representatives.
He welcomed senior officials from the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development, as well as delegates from the districts of Kassanda, Mubende, Kyankwanzi, Kiboga, and Hoima.
The workshop focused on the implementation of the Minerals Markets and Buying Centers regulations, which are intended to formalize mineral trade, reduce illegal activities, and streamline operations within Uganda’s growing mining sector.
Commissioner for Mines, Ms. Agnes Alana, outlined key aspects of the new framework, describing the buying centers as one-stop hubs expected to attract both local and foreign investment while safeguarding investors and investments.
“Minerals markets and buying centers promote fair prices, transparency, and protection against exploitation, illicit financial flows, and fraud in the minerals trade,” Ms. Alana said.
She added that government is prioritizing value addition to ensure Uganda benefits more from its natural resources instead of exporting raw minerals.
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Ssegawa echoed the commissioner’s remarks, urging miners to operate openly and responsibly. He noted that the regulations are intended to create a fair, healthy, and conducive working environment for everyone involved in the sector.
Kassanda has officially been designated as one of Uganda’s key minerals markets and buying centers, alongside Busia, Karamoja, and Buhweju. The district is expected to serve as a major trading hub for gold, tin, and gemstones, a move likely to boost the local economy and create new opportunities for surrounding communities.
The engagement is part of the government’s broader strategy to regulate artisanal and small-scale mining, curb smuggling, and ensure mineral-rich districts benefit from formalized and transparent market systems.