The minister of State for Minerals development, Phiona Nyamutoro, has officially launched the Euro Gold Refinery Mining Site in Yumbe district.
The launch, a landmark step in Uganda’s mineral sector, was witnessed by the Commissioner for Mines, representatives from Bank of Uganda, and district leaders and other key stakeholders, setting the journey toward responsible, world-class mineral development.
Speaking at the event, Nyamutoro noted that they are trying to show communities in West Nile and across the country, evidence benefits of responsible sustainable Mining.
“As you can see the Gold mine here is mercury free. and they have potential of crushing 16,000 tons, which would help them have quite a number products,” she said.
The mine is also expected to boost infrastructure and improve social services. The minister warned against employment of minors, but also encouraged people to abide by the rules as they are written black and white in the mining rules of 2022.
“We call upon all those involved in mining to formalize and do the right thing, because at the ministerial level, we have tried to reach out a helpful hand to see that the minders get all the support they can.”
According to Benard Feni, Euro Gold Refinery CEO, the company has set a target of producing at least 20 kilograms of gold per week as its newly launched small-scale mining operations in Yumbe District expand. The mines are valued at $500million.
Feni said the company had spent more than two years conducting surveys and exploration in the area before securing the mining ground. He said the company’s operations cover approximately 79 square kilometres across West Nile, with Yumbe serving as its pioneer site in the region.
He noted that Euro Gold is committed to working closely with local communities while ensuring the safety of artisanal miners and complying with all required licences and regulations. He disclosed that the company plans to establish a processing plant at the site to strengthen accountability and traceability throughout the gold production process.
Feni said the company intends to progressively develop its operations and contribute to Uganda’s economic transformation through responsible mineral development. He emphasised Euro Gold’s commitment to creating a positive impact in the communities where it operates.
The company holds a number of licenses in areas of Yumbe, Abim, Busia, Kaabong, Kotido, Moroto.
Euro Gold Refinery also entered into partnerships with local mining communities. Feni noted that the refinery has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Mubende gold miners, to add value to their gold benefiting over 3,000 artisanal miners.
Euro Gold Refinery also has a joint venture with Kakoka artisan miners cooperatives. The miners also have an MOU to supply gold to Euro Gold Refinery.
Through these efforts, Euro Gold refinery has not only boosted Uganda’s gold value chain but also created employment opportunities, with more than 70 per cent of its workforce comprising Ugandans trained to meet international standards.