As Uganda’s economy expands, government officials have begun meeting with citizens on how to get a market for mineral wealth, stating that the President’s vision is to ensure that what's produced on the market is of good quality and the meeting was held at speke resort munyonyo found in Makindye Parish.
According to the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Energy, Mineral Wealth, and Development, Eng. Irene Pauline Bateebe, the President, wants to see citizens benefit from the minerals as soon as they are extracted.
She urged Ugandans to cooperate through legal and fair means when extracting minerals, rather than harming the environment.
However, Agnes Alaba, the Commissioner in charge of Mineral Wealth, reminded people that the government holds responsibility over these resources, even when they are found on their land.
Nassuuna Grace, an expert in mineral wealth, and Royola Rwabose Karagwa, a legal expert, educated the public on extraction procedures, clarifying that only licensed individuals have permission to extract minerals.
Added that the proper procedures must be followed when bringing minerals to the market.
President Museveni has since emphasized the issue of value addition, stating that East African and African nations must raise standards in mineral processing, a matter the ministries are currently working on.
Oworra Gabriel – SALT TV
