The delayed redevelopment of Kilembe Mines has drawn criticism from some leaders in Kasese District, who accuse the government of failing to create the necessary conditions for the investor to commence mining operations.
The leaders say critical infrastructure challenges, including unreliable electricity supply, deteriorated underground mine access, and inadequate geological data, continue to slow progress at the historic copper and cobalt mine.
For decades, Kilembe Mines was a cornerstone of Uganda’s mining sector, employing thousands of people and contributing significantly to the economy through copper and cobalt production.
However, nearly five decades after mining activities stopped, efforts to revive the mine have yet to yield tangible results, despite the government awarding operations to Sarrai Group of Companies under a Production Sharing Agreement.
While government officials maintain that the investor is mobilising equipment in preparation for full-scale operations, local leaders argue that the current state of the mine presents major challenges that must first be addressed.
Bulembia Division LCIII Chairperson Richard Bomera said the investor inherited a mining site lacking essential infrastructure needed to support operations.
“The investor found a mine without sufficient power supply, underground sections that require extensive rehabilitation, and limited geological information to guide exploration and extraction activities,” Bomera said.
He warned that prolonged delays could weaken public confidence in the project and deny local communities the jobs and economic opportunities they have anticipated for years.
“People have waited for a long time to see Kilembe Mines reopened. Every delay raises more questions and postpones the jobs and business opportunities that residents were expecting,” he added.
Despite concerns from local leaders, Kasese Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Lt. Joe Walusimbi assured residents that the redevelopment project remains on course.
Walusimbi acknowledged the poor condition of the mine’s infrastructure but said the investor has started mobilising machinery and equipment for rehabilitation works.
“The investor is bringing in equipment and machinery. Government remains committed to ensuring that the redevelopment process moves forward and that mining activities resume,” Walusimbi said.
The Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development, Irene Pauline Bateebe, also reaffirmed government’s commitment to the project, saying discussions are ongoing to address infrastructure bottlenecks affecting implementation.
She noted that the Production Sharing Agreement remains in force and that preparations are underway to facilitate the resumption of mining activities.
Government officials insist that the redevelopment programme remains on track and that measures are being taken to resolve the challenges affecting the project.
For many residents of Kasese District, Kilembe Mines remains both a symbol of hope and a test of government’s commitment to restoring one of Uganda’s most important mining assets.
Many believe the long-awaited economic transformation linked to the mine’s revival will only be achieved once the required infrastructure and investment conditions are fully established.