mining 24 September 2026 Nile Post
Abim District's Kakoka Mining Site Launched to Formalize Artisanal Gold Operations
Minister Phiona Nyamutoro has inaugurated the Kakoka Artisanal Miners Cooperative Society's licensed mining site in Abim, marking a significant step towards formalizing artisanal mining, attracting investment, and promoting responsible gold extraction. Source: https://nilepost.co.ug/news/373336/nyamutoro-launches-kakoka-mining-site-to-formalise-artisanal-mining-in-abim
The Kakoka Artisanal Miners Cooperative Society Limited has officially launched its licensed mining site in Abim District, a move hailed as crucial for the formalization of artisanal mining and the attraction of future investments in the region’s gold sector.
Minister of State for Mineral Development, Phiona Nyamutoro, presided over the launch, congratulating the cooperative for successfully obtaining its artisanal mining license. This achievement positions Kakoka as a pioneering example for other small-scale miners seeking to transition from informal practices to a structured and regulated mining system.
Minister Nyamutoro emphasized the importance of patience, compliance, and cooperation with government bodies throughout the licensing process, encouraging other artisanal miners to follow suit. She stated that the formalization of Kakoka marks the commencement of a broader gold development initiative in Abim, with a focus on sustainable and responsible mining practices, alongside value addition.
This development aligns with Uganda’s national strategy to formalize artisanal and small-scale mining, aiming to bolster the sector’s contribution to the economy. The Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development believes that formalization will enhance safety, regulatory adherence, productivity, and value addition within the mining industry.
Uganda’s mining sector has seen substantial economic growth, particularly driven by gold, which constituted a significant portion of export earnings in 2025. The country has also expanded its gold refining capacity.
Local authorities, including the Resident District Commissioner of Abim, Adiamah Ekaju John, urged miners to be vigilant against fraudulent activities, particularly those involving unregulated gold trading. They also stressed the importance of transparency and accountability to safeguard the interests of mining communities and the district.
The Ministry continues to encourage artisanal miners to form cooperatives and engage with regulatory bodies to secure licenses and access necessary support. The Kakoka project is anticipated to serve as a catalyst for more organized mining operations in Abim, fostering employment and economic opportunities in gold production, processing, and related services.