Abim artisanal miners urged to embrace responsible mining
“I would like to appreciate the team at DGSM, the technical team, for the great work that they have done. We are all proud that this is the first artisanal mining licence we are launching, and we are going to use you as a benchmark to the whole country,” Minister Nyamutoro said.
Nyamutoro said the licensing of Kakoka demonstrates that artisanal miners who follow the law can obtain Government recognition and legally participate in the mining sector. (Courtesy Photo)
The Government has urged artisanal miners to comply with mining laws and adopt responsible practices as it moves to formalise Uganda’s artisanal and small-scale mining sector.
The minerals state minister Phiona Nyamutoro made the call on September 22, 2026, during the launch of the Kakoka Artisanal Miners Co-operative Society Ltd mining site at Okemer Village, Alerek sub-county in Abim District.
Kakoka has secured an artisanal mining licence and entered into strategic memoranda of understanding (MoUs) with gold refineries, including Euro Gold Refinery, providing the co-operative with access to formal markets for its production.
Nyamutoro said the licensing of Kakoka demonstrates that artisanal miners who follow the law can obtain Government recognition and legally participate in the mining sector.
“We want to show other artisans that if they comply and follow the laws, they will definitely get licensed by the Ministry and be allowed to mine,” Nyamutoro said.
“We appreciate you for upholding the President’s directive until now and also for putting in effort to help us sensitise the people on how best they can understand and appreciate the mining laws,” she said.
Nyamutoro also praised the Directorate of Geological Survey and Mines (DGSM) technical team for supporting the licensing process.
“I would like to appreciate the team at DGSM, the technical team, for the great work that they have done. We are all proud that this is the first artisanal mining licence we are launching, and we are going to use you as a benchmark to the whole country,” she said.
She said Kakoka’s experience should encourage other artisanal miners to formalise their operations.
Nyamutoro further emphasised responsible mining, urging miners to protect the environment while extracting minerals.
The Government expects formalisation to improve compliance, environmental management and traceability while helping artisanal miners access formal markets and participate more effectively in Uganda’s mineral value chain.
Nyamutoro further emphasised responsible mining, urging miners to protect the environment while extracting minerals.
Milestone for sector
Kakako Artisanal Miners Co-operative Society Ltd executive director Dennis Okawa welcomed the launch of the co-operative’s mining site in Abim district, describing it as a historic milestone for the community and Uganda’s artisanal mining sector.
Okawa explained that the cooperative had waited for the formal launch since beginning mining activities in 2024.
“Today we are very happy to have the ceremony being done. In fact, today marks a historic moment for our country and our district,” Okawa said.
He said the launch would allow members of the community to formally begin mining and use the activity to improve their livelihoods.
“This launch is something we have been waiting for since 2024, because that is when we started the activity of mining. So, I believe that after the launch, our community will be given the chance to start mining so that they improve on their livelihood,” he said.
Okawa said the cooperative expects the formalisation of its operations to create opportunities for local residents while promoting legal and organised mining in Abim.
Through the Mining & Minerals Act 2022 and ASM Regulations 2025, Government empowered local miners to grow from artisanal to industrial scale. Nyamutooro pointed that the Abim license signifies inclusion, responsible mining and job creation.
A mineral buying centre will also be established in Abim to boost local value.