UGAASM Launches Nationwide Drive to Unite, Formalize, and Strengthen Uganda’s Artisanal Mining Sector
KAMPALA, Uganda – The Uganda Association of Artisans and Small-Scale Miners (UGAASM) has embarked on a countrywide engagement tour to reaffirm its membership base, revitalize governance structures, and rebuild a united voice for the artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM) sector.
Led by National Chairperson John Bosco Bukya, a team from the national secretariat has begun the exercise in the western region, interacting with miners and mining associations across Buwjeju, Ntungamo, Isingiro, and the Kigezi sub-region.
The tour, characterized by transparent and participatory processes, aims to recommit members to the institutional workplan agreed upon during the 2024 Fort Portal Management, Leadership, and Advocacy Training for UGAASM leaders. Officials say the engagements are also intended to reinforce UGAASM’s position as Uganda’s leading advocacy platform for small-scale miners, establish clear operational modalities, and rebuild the organization’s identity, visibility, and public presence.
Miners Call for Stronger Representation
Throughout the engagements, miners consistently highlighted the urgent need for stronger representation and support—particularly in addressing challenges related to licensing and formalization. Many called upon UGAASM to amplify their voices before the government and help create a more enabling environment for artisanal miners to operate legally and sustainably.
“Form Groups as a First Step”—Chairman Bukya
While interacting with miners in Isingiro District, John Bosco Bukya encouraged miners to organize themselves into groups and formal associations as a critical first step toward legalization and long-term sector development.
“It becomes easier to pursue the legalisation process as a group,” Bukya said. “I encourage you to form associations, register with the relevant government authorities at the district level, and subsequently subscribe to UGAASM. By doing so, we can work closely together and support you on the journey towards acquiring a mining licence.”
A Stronger Future for Uganda’s ASM Sector
According to UGAASM leaders, the future of Uganda’s artisanal and small-scale mining sector depends on a strong, credible, and effective representative body. The association remains committed to revitalizing its structures and strengthening its capacity, noting that “the strength of the sector’s voice is directly linked to the institutional health of the association itself.”
“Together, we are building a more organized, inclusive, and sustainable mining sector for Uganda,” the association stated. “Together, we can make legalization easier and stronger.”
The nationwide engagement continues, with UGAASM urging all artisanal and small-scale miners to join the movement toward formalization, responsible mining, and shared prosperity.
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