Find Mining expertise in Uganda

Mining is mainly small scale and artisanal in Uganda. The country mines gold, cobalt, limonite and other iron ore, tantalum, tin, tungsten, apatite, gypsum, kaolin, and brick clays and other clays. Gold is the leading mineral export and much of the gold comes from alluvial deposits around the Buhweju Plateau, recovered by artisanal miners. Under the Uganda Mining Act, all minerals are owned by the government, which gives rights to individuals and companies to explore.

Uganda’s mining and quarrying industries peaked in the 1950s and 60s but dropped significantly in later years due to political instability. In recent years however, exploration of possible quarry sites has found extensive deposits that have the potential to be commercially exploitable. In particular, limestone in the eastern region of the country, as well as brick clays found throughout Uganda, for use in the construction industry have drawn the interest of foreign investors. Other exploitable resources include kaolin and bentonite clays, salt and large marble formations found in the Motoro region.