Peninah Asiimwe

The planetGOLD Uganda project convened key stakeholders in Kampala on October 4, for its second annual meeting, uniting voices in support of a more responsible artisanal gold mining sector. This gathering marks three years since the project inception.

Located in Uganda’s Namayingo District, Buhere Mine Site highlights both the challenges and opportunities faced by artisanal and small-scale gold mining (ASGM) communities. What sets this site apart is its proximity to Lake Victoria, emphasizing the critical need for responsible mining practices.

The Uganda Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development, with support from the planetGOLD Uganda project, conducted a series of nationwide consultation workshops to discuss the proposed artisanal mining regulations under the Mining and Minerals Act, 2022.

“We are privileged to have planetGOLD come for sensitisation and especially teaching us on the dangers of mercury use which has been the predominant chemical for use in the catching of gold.”

To gain firsthand insights into artisanal and small-scale gold mining, Uganda government officials, alongside representatives from various stakeholders, embarked on a field visit to the Kayonza Mine Site.

In a significant step towards responsible artisanal gold mining, the planetGOLD Uganda project hosted its annual stakeholders meeting in November, under the theme, “Building Uganda’s mercury-free artisanal gold mining sector.”

Sylvia is an artisanal gold miner in Central Uganda. She spends her days at Kayonza Mining Site—purchasing bags of ore, crushing, washing it—and searching for gold. The small droplet of mercury in her basin helps make sure she gets all the flecks of gold to sell at the end of the day.

The planetGOLD Uganda team meets with miners working at the Kayonza artisanal gold mine site to understand their needs and use of mercury across the country.

Last year, Uganda passed the new Mining and Minerals Law, which for the first time, integrated regulations governing artisanal and small-scale mining. The new law includes provisions to ensure responsible mining practices, including health and safety, gender equality, as well as environmental protection.