A New Era for Uganda’s Mineral Economy as UNMC Officially Launched
Monday, August 4, 2025 – Kampala, Uganda
In a landmark move aimed at unlocking the full potential of Uganda’s vast mineral wealth, the Government has officially launched the Uganda National Mining Company (UNMC). The company is expected to play a pivotal role in revolutionizing mineral resource development and transforming Uganda into a competitive player in the global mining sector.
UNMC has been established to implement the country’s mining reforms under the Mining and Minerals Act. It will act as the government’s commercial arm in the mining industry, participating in joint ventures, acquiring interests, and managing state equity in mining operations.
Dr. Gerald Banaga-Baingi, an experienced environmental economist and mining governance expert, has been appointed as Chief Executive Officer of UNMC. He brings to the role more than 25 years of experience and a strong academic background, including a Doctorate in Policy and Environmental Management, and several postgraduate qualifications from institutions in Norway, Israel, the UK, and Hong Kong.
Dr. Banaga-Baingi will lead a team of six highly qualified professionals to drive Uganda’s mineral development agenda. The team includes experts in exploration, engineering, law, finance, human resource, and governance, reflecting the multidimensional approach UNMC will employ to maximize the country’s mineral revenues.
Executive Management Team of UNMC:
Sandra Apolot – Chief Commercial Officer: A fellow of the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants and specialist in petroleum and mineral revenue management.
Lorna Nankya – Chief Exploration & Extractions Officer: A seasoned geologist and mineral exploitation expert with a focus on natural resource governance.
Eng. Samuel Acidir – Chief Operations & Quality Assurance Officer: Civil and structural engineer with expertise in oil and gas infrastructure, formerly involved in the Tilenga EPCC oil project.
Brenda R. Jabea – Chief Human Resource Strategist: An HR and organizational development expert with both private and public sector experience.
Joseph Otwech – Chief Internal Audit & Risk Management Officer: A highly credentialed auditor and risk management professional with numerous global certifications.
Lilia K. Lubambula – Chief Legal and Governance Officer: A governance expert and Fellow of the Chartered Governance Institute (UK), specializing in corporate legal affairs.
The creation of UNMC aligns with Uganda’s broader strategy to ensure sustainable exploitation of minerals such as gold, lithium, rare earths, and iron ore, while safeguarding environmental and social interests. The company will champion transparency, fair taxation, and investor protection as it works to reposition the sector as a key driver of economic growth.
UNMC is also expected to play a central role in attracting foreign direct investment, promoting job creation, and enhancing Uganda’s competitiveness in regional and global mineral markets.
Dr. Banaga-Baingi emphasized that the company’s mandate is not just about extraction but creating value throughout the mineral value chain. “Our aim is to build a strong and transparent institution that delivers real benefits to Ugandans from their natural resources,” he said.
With this bold step, Uganda sets a new course toward harnessing its mineral resources for national development, signaling a fresh and ambitious chapter in its economic transformation journey.
