Uganda has put its mineral potential in the spotlight with a high-profile Mining Excursion Trip, offering delegates from Tanzania and beyond a firsthand look at the country’s growing mining and energy sectors.
The tour was organised as part of the 14th Mineral Wealth Conference 2025, with the Uganda High Commission in Dar es Salaam playing a key sponsorship role to foster regional collaboration and investment.
The multi-stop tour featured key mining sites across western Uganda, highlighting opportunities in tin, iron ore, gold, cobalt, and value-added industries.
From Tin Mines to Gold Fields
The first stop took delegates to the Isingiro Tin Mine Project, where they toured the historic Isingiro cave and observed the full tin extraction process—from exploration to ore processing. Delegates handled raw tin samples and learned about the economic impact of artisanal mining on local communities.
At Woodcross Resources Ltd in Mbarara, the team explored industrial-scale operations, witnessing cutting-edge machinery for ore crushing, smelting, and refining. The visit underscored Uganda’s commitment to value addition in mineral production.
The journey then moved to the Rwomushojjo gold mines in Buhweju District, where mining dates back to the 1850s. Veteran miner Mr Muhairwe Justus explained how small-scale mining supports livelihoods despite challenging yields—just two grams of gold per four tonnes of ore.
Cobalt and Hydropower in Kasese
One of the most insightful stops was the Kasese Cobalt Company Ltd (KCCL), a pioneer in cobalt production and hydropower generation since 1999. Operations Manager Mr Mugabi detailed how KCCL combines innovation with sustainability to power industries across the region.
Scenic Beauty Meets Economic Potential
Beyond the mining sites, delegates visited the Uganda Equator and Queen Elizabeth National Park, blending economic exploration with Uganda’s cultural and environmental heritage. Park rangers shared insights on conservation and biodiversity as delegates enjoyed the iconic landscapes.
Strengthening Regional Partnerships
According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the excursion provided “profound knowledge about Uganda’s mineral wealth and energy potential” while strengthening cross-border collaboration in mining and industrial development.
Special appreciation was extended to the Uganda High Commission in Dar es Salaam, the Uganda Chamber of Mines and Petroleum, and other strategic partners for making the event possible.
Held at Serena Hotel, Kampala, on 24th & 25th September, the 14th Mineral Wealth Conference featured impactful discussions on investment, sustainability, and technological innovation in the mining sector, as well as networking and collaboration.