Euro Gold launches small-scale gold mining project in Yumbe as government pushes responsible mineral development
The launch was attended by government officials, mining sector stakeholders, and community representatives, with the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development reaffirming its commitment to growing the sector through investment, regulation, and responsible mining practices.
Yumbe District has taken a major step in Uganda’s mineral development agenda following the launch of the Euro Gold Small-Scale Mining Project, aimed at formalising artisanal and small-scale mining and promoting responsible exploitation of mineral resources.
The launch was attended by government officials, mining sector stakeholders, and community representatives, with the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development reaffirming its commitment to growing the sector through investment, regulation, and responsible mining practices.
The Minister of State for Mineral Development, Hon. Phiona Nyamutoro said the project reflects Government’s commitment to implementing mineral development priorities under the Fourth National Development Plan (NDP IV).
She said Yumbe and Zombo districts are among the gold-rich areas in the West Nile region, presenting opportunities for economic growth, employment creation, and improved livelihoods.
Minister Nyamutoro welcomed Euro Gold’s investment, noting that the company is licensed to undertake mining activities, but urged it to comply with the law, support surrounding communities, and create opportunities for local workers.
She challenged the company to expand from small-scale mining into medium – and large-scale operations while continuing to support artisanal and small-scale miners.
The Minister also reiterated Government’s resolve to eliminate illegal mining activities, saying unlicensed operations and unsafe mining practices will continue to face enforcement action.
She called for improved safety standards, access to insurance and healthcare services for miners, urging workers to use personal protective equipment (PPE) while on mining sites.
Euro Gold Chief Executive Officer Ben Feni said the company spent more than two years conducting surveys and exploration before securing its mining area.
The company’s operations cover approximately 79 square kilometres across West Nile, with Yumbe serving as its first mining site. Feni said Euro Gold targets producing at least 20 kilograms of gold per week and plans to establish a processing plant to improve traceability and accountability in the gold supply chain.
“We are going to build our nation,” Feni said, emphasising the company’s commitment to contributing to Uganda’s development.
The Chief Executive Officer of the Uganda Association of Artisanal and Small-Scale Miners, Assimwe Kenneth, commended Government and Euro Gold for supporting the formalisation of small-scale mining.
He urged communities to prioritise education by keeping children away from mining activities while encouraging miners to use protective equipment and access insurance services.
Meanwhile, Tusigwire Julius, Head of the Mineral Police Unit, said the unit continues to combat illegal mining, mineral smuggling, fraud, and forced labour in the sector.
He revealed that more than 15 illegal mining sites have been closed this year while expressing concern over deaths linked to unsafe mining practices.
Eng. Grace Nakku from the Office of the Commissioner, Minerals and Energy Department, said responsible mining is essential in attracting investment and strengthening Uganda’s mineral sector.
She advised that only persons aged 18 years and above should access mining sites and encouraged Euro Gold to scale up operations while supporting artisanal miners.
The launch of the Euro Gold project highlights Government’s efforts to build a formal, safe, and investment-driven mining sector that creates jobs, supports communities, and contributes to Uganda’s economic transformation.
