The Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development (MEMD)
MEMD is responsible for the sector, dealing specifically with mineral policy formulation, implementation and monitoring. The Mission of the ministry is to develop, strategically manage and safeguard the rational and sustainable utilization of mineral resources for economic and social development of Uganda.
The mineral policy
The mineral policy constitutes a formal framework through which the mineral sector will develop within the national strategy for poverty eradication and development.
The Mineral Policy Objectives are:
- To stimulate mining sector development by promoting private sector participation.
- To ensure that mineral wealth supports national economic and social Development.
- To regularise and improve artisanal and small scale mining.
- To minimise and mitigate the adverse social and environmental impacts of mineral exploitation.
- To remove restrictive practices on women participation in the mineral sector and protect children against mining hazards.
- To develop and strengthen local capacity for mineral development.
- To add value to mineral ores and increase mineral trade.
Mining Act
The Mining Act 2003 covers mineral ownership and rights, administration, licensing and leases, inspections, mineral trade and dealing, surface rights, cancellation and suspension of mineral rights, registration and records, environmental protections and financial and other provisions.
Mining regulations
The mining regulations were made on 2nd day of September, 2004 in exercise of the powers conferred upon the Minister by section 121 of the Mining Act, 2003. Mining regulations help in applying for mining and related licenses in Uganda as well as for leases official certificates of work progress or approval.
Other Laws:
Other important laws enacted by the Government of Uganda that affect mining and exploration, besides the Mining Act 2003 and Mining Regulations 2004, include: • The National Environment Act 2003 • The Land Act 1998 (currently under revision) • The Land Regulations Act 2004 • Registration of Titles Act 2000 • Contracts Act 2000 • The Arbitration and Conciliation Act 2000
Information available for investors in the mining sector
There are attractive incentives to investors because of growing appreciation of the minerals wealth of the country, settled business climate that has developed over the last 20 years, have led to increasing awareness by the international mining community of the actual and potential commercial development of gold, vermiculite, copper, cobalt, various specialty metals, and other minerals.