In a bold step signalling a new era in Uganda’s energy and mineral sector, the Uganda Chamber of Energy and Minerals (UCEM) has officially repositioned as a national leader in clean energy advocacy and sustainable mineral development, marking a critical moment in the country’s transition toward a greener, more inclusive energy future.
The announcement was made at a launch event held at Kampala Serena Hotel, officiated by Ruth Nankabirwa, the Minister of Energy and Mineral Development, and attended by government officials, private sector leaders, development partners, and representatives from across the energy and minerals value chains.
Speaking at the launch, Mr. Aggrey Ashaba, the Chairman Governing Council of UCEM, highlighted the urgency of responding to both global climate trends and local development needs.
“UCEM is repositioning, not as a marketing exercise, not as a cosmetic change, but as a bold, strategic shift toward purpose. From this day forward, the Uganda Chamber of Energy and Minerals will lead as a champion of cleaner energy solutions and sustainable minerals development,” Ashaba said.
The repositioning comes at a time when global energy systems are undergoing rapid transformation. Renewable energy capacity rose by over 50% in 2023, according to the International Energy Agency (IEA), and governments worldwide are accelerating plans to achieve net-zero emissions.
In Uganda, electricity access remains below 20% in rural areas as per the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development, while the country faces growing pressure to balance industrialisation and environmental stewardship.
“Cleaner energy advocacy means supporting renewables, better mining practices, and embedding ESG standards into how we operate. It also means ensuring no one is left behind, that workers, communities, and young people all benefit from this shift,” Ashaba added.
Minister Ruth Nankabirwa commended UCEM for showing leadership in a critical area of Uganda’s future.
“Uganda must prepare for a future where sustainability is not just an option, but a requirement. I applaud UCEM for stepping up not just to support investment and innovation, but to ensure our energy and mineral wealth uplifts our people and preserves our environment. The government is committed to working with partners like UCEM to achieve the country’s Vision 2040 and the national energy goals,” said Nankabirwa.
The repositioning aligns perfectly with national frameworks such as Vision 2040, the National Energy Policy, and NDPIII, and supports Uganda’s contribution to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGS), particularly on clean energy, economic growth, responsible consumption, and climate action.
UCEM also announced its commitment to deeper stakeholder collaboration, pledging to work hand-in-hand with government, private investors, civil society, communities, and global partners to build capacity, share technology, and
drive innovation.
“Let’s power Uganda not just with energy, but with cleaner, more just, and more inclusive energy. Let’s make Uganda not just a participant in the global energy transition but a continental leader," Ashaba said.