news 12 August 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Kassanda Artisans Petition President Museveni Amidst Mining Guideline Dispute
Artisans in Kassanda District have petitioned President Museveni, citing unresolved issues surrounding mining and exploration guidelines at Mugera Hill. A recent grace period granted to one mining entity has sparked controversy and fears of marginalization among other stakeholders. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/kassanda-artisans-petition-museveni-over-unresolved-mining-exploration-guidelines-5555218
A conflict among small-scale gold miners in Kassanda District threatens to disrupt efforts to regulate mining and exploration activities at Mugera Hill. This dispute follows the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development’s decision to grant a 12-month grace period for Mugobwa Katugo Small Scale Mines to finalize its license.
Landlords at Mugera Hill, represented by George Bisamaza, have expressed strong objections. Bisamaza contends that granting this grace period without resolving the underlying issues that led to the January 2026 suspension and eviction of miners undermines President Museveni’s commitment to inclusive artisanal mining. He highlighted a recent incident where a worker was allegedly injured and threatened, further fueling their concerns.
Similar sentiments are echoed by other landlords, including Jesca Nakakawa and James Ssembajwe. They argue that their rights as stakeholders have been disregarded and that the Ministry has failed to involve all relevant parties in the decision-making process. They are appealing directly to the President to intervene and ensure fairness.
However, Dr. Flugy Mukasa, Chairperson of Mugobwa Katugo Small Scale Miners Limited, has downplayed these allegations, asserting that his company is duly registered and has followed all necessary procedures. He denied claims of breaching contractual obligations or orchestrating attacks on workers.
The Kassanda Resident District Commissioner, Phoebe Namulindwa, has also called for a harmonized approach. She stated that the District Security Committee, which was involved in the initial suspension, was excluded from recent ministerial developments, hindering their efforts to ensure order and stability in the mining area.
Past correspondences reveal disagreements among various mining associations regarding mineral rights and exploration management, suggesting a complex history of conflict that requires careful resolution to ensure equitable practices in the region’s mining sector.