economy 15 August 2026 Nile Post
Youth Mining Day 2026 Empowers Ugandan Youth for Minerals Sector Growth
Over 250 young Ugandans gathered for Youth Mining Day 2026, an event focused on equipping them with skills, fostering innovation, and encouraging entrepreneurship to drive investment and job creation in the nation's burgeoning minerals sector. Source: https://nilepost.co.ug/news/363777/youth-mining-day-positions-young-ugandans-to-drive-jobs-and-investment
Youth Mining Day 2026 successfully convened more than 250 young Ugandans and key industry figures with the goal of enhancing participation and opportunity within Uganda’s significant mineral resources sector. The event, spearheaded by the Junior Uganda Chamber of Energy and Minerals (JUCEM) in collaboration with Busitema University, aimed to transform young participants into innovators, entrepreneurs, and future leaders in the industry.
Uganda possesses substantial reserves of minerals like gold, cobalt, lithium, and graphite, presenting considerable potential for economic development. However, barriers such as limited industry exposure and skills gaps have historically hindered youth engagement. This initiative sought to address these challenges by providing vital skills, networking opportunities, and a clearer understanding of career pathways.
Discussions at the event highlighted the evolving demands of the minerals sector, which now requires expertise beyond traditional fields, encompassing geoscience, digital mining, environmental management, and community engagement. Speakers, including representatives from UCEM, GIZ, UNDP, and the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation, emphasized the critical role of youth in driving innovation and sustainable development.
The State Minister for Energy and Mineral Development, Phiona Nyamutoro, reiterated the government’s commitment to fostering opportunities for young Ugandans. She stressed the importance of equipping the youth with relevant technologies and skills to maximize the value derived from mineral exploration, extraction, and commercialization.
The event also aimed to broaden the perception of careers within the minerals sector, showcasing opportunities in areas like data management, finance, logistics, and business development, in addition to technical roles. With over 40% of participants being women, the initiative underscored a commitment to gender-inclusive growth. JUCEM plans to build on this momentum, ensuring young Ugandans are central to transforming mineral wealth into sustainable economic benefits.
This event was reported by Nile Post.