Govt Announces Redevelopment of Kilembe Mines
Once a thriving gem nestled in Kasese, Kilembe Mines, rich in copper, has remained defunct, lacking viable economic activity.
The government has completed the redevelopment process for Kilembe Mines, with an official announcement regarding the selected developer expected by Friday.
Energy minister Ruth Nankabirwa revealed that the public call for bids attracted 14 companies, and after thorough review, one has been chosen, with hopes it will adhere to the terms of the Mineral Production Sharing Agreement.
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Once a thriving gem nestled in Kasese, Kilembe Mines, rich in copper, has remained defunct, lacking viable economic activity.
Owned by the Ministry of Finance, the mines have been in decline, but this is set to change. While officiating at the 13th Mineral Wealth Conference, Nankabirwa confirmed the developer's selection.
“The redevelopment process for Kilembe Mines has been completed, and we expect the official announcement to be made on Friday," she said.
"Following our public call for bids, 14 companies expressed interest. After a thorough review, one company has been selected, and we are confident it will comply with the terms of the Mineral Production Sharing Agreement."
Nankabirwa also announced that the Uganda National Mining Company would soon be operational.
“I am pleased to announce that the Board of Directors for the Uganda National Mining Company was approved in yesterday’s Cabinet meeting.
This company will play a crucial role in managing the state’s commercial interests in the mining industry, promoting sustainability, and fostering national content,” she added.
During the conference, experts from the extractives sector emphasized the need for strategic investment and regulation.
Ashaba Aggrey, chairman of the Governing Council of the Uganda Chamber of Mines and Extractives, stated, “As a chamber, we believe that strategic investments, advancements in technology, innovation, and data analytics will ensure the long-term sustainability of the minerals sector in Uganda.”
Deputy Speaker of Parliament Thomas Tayebwa, who opened the conference, pledged legislative support for the extractives sector.
“As parliament, we are ready to prioritize any law that calls for the advancement of the minerals sector to ensure that it is highly protected and operates smoothly,” Tayebwa affirmed.
Mineral development is high on the government agenda, alongside agriculture, tourism, and science and technology.
There is hope that massive investment in the sector will contribute positively to achieving tenfold growth by 2040.
