LocationsUganda’s Youth Mining Initiative Gains Momentum: National Training Program Sparks Innovation, Inclusion, and Enterprise
July 1, 2026
Some of the training participants at Busitema University, in Eastern Uganda
In a bold move to transform Uganda’s mining sector through youth empowerment, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), in collaboration with the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development (MEMD) and the Uganda Chamber of Energy and Minerals (UCEM), successfully organized a series of Regional Business and Employability Skills Trainings for young entrepreneurs, students, and professionals in Uganda’s mining sector. The training was aimed at equipping young Ugandans with business acumen, financial literacy, and sustainable mining practices.
The initiative is part of the ACP-EU Development Minerals Programme – which is co funded by UNDP and the European Union. A total of 180 youth participated, with a commendable 43% female representation, reflecting a strong commitment to gender inclusion in a traditionally male-dominated industry. Kabale, Gulu, and Busitema University hosted the training activities during August 2025.
Development minerals are essential raw materials used in construction, manufacturing, and agriculture, including materials like clay, sand, stone, and limestone. They are typically mined, processed, and used domestically within a country. Uganda is rich in development minerals, which are crucial for infrastructure development and economic activity. They play a vital role in local economies, providing raw materials for various industries and supporting livelihoods, particularly in artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM).
Uganda's economic strategy, dubbed "ATMS", focuses on rapid growth through Agro-industrialization, Tourism development, Mineral based industrialization, and Science, Technology, and Innovation. This strategy aims to expand Uganda's economy tenfold, from $50 billion to $500 billion by 2040. One of the key actions to achieve this outcome is accumulating human, physical, and natural capital and the private sector is expected to play a crucial role in driving the growth agenda.
A view of Busitema University main building – one of the training locations
Regional Training Highlights
- Kabale University (Western Uganda):
Youth engaged in sessions with emphasis on formalization of mining formalizing businesses, access to financial services, and an improved understanding of mining regulations. A symbolic tree-planting ceremony underscored the importance of environmental stewardship in mining operations. - Gulu University (Northern Uganda):
Participants explored entrepreneurship, innovation, and value addition in Development Minerals such as stone aggregates and dimension stones, which the district is a host of. The program included Gulu University campus tours showcasing student-led innovations in mineral processing and sustainable practices. Local leaders and university officials praised the initiative for bridging the gap between academia and the mining industry. - Busitema University (Eastern Uganda):
The focus was on technical training, compliance, and exposure to modern mining technologies. Participants interacted with mining sector experts gaining insights into licensing, safety standards, and the potential of Development Minerals to drive local economies.
Key outcomes
- Enterprise Development: Participants were encouraged to register their businesses and explore opportunities in minerals value chains — ranging from quarrying and processing to marketing and innovation.
- Academic-Industry Collaboration: The host universities pledged ongoing support for student-led mining enterprises and committed to integrating practical mining modules into their curricula. UCEM plans to document and showcase youth-led projects in its upcoming “30 Mining Days of Media Campaign.”
- Financial Inclusion: Many youths opened savings accounts during the training, marking a step toward financial independence and business formalization. Post Bank played a pivotal role in guiding participants through account setup and financial planning.
Youth obtaining training at the Uganda Youth Mining Initiative
Looking Ahead
The Uganda Chamber of Energy and Mines (UCEM) and its youth wing, the Junior Chamber of Energy and Mines, are exploring ways to scale the program nationally, with plans to establish regional hubs for mentorship, incubation, and technical support. The initiative is seen as a model for inclusive, sustainable development—where youth are not just beneficiaries but active architects of Uganda’s mining future.
As Uganda positions itself to harness its mineral wealth responsibly, this youth-centered approach could redefine the sector’s trajectory—infusing it with innovation, accountability, and a new generation of empowered leaders. The mining sector is expected to contribute about 10,000 new jobs per year during the five-year span of the current fourth National Development Plan (FY2025/26 – FY2029/31). The youth training initiative therefore supports Uganda’s long-term goal of transforming into a middle-income country by promoting industrialization and value addition in the minerals sector. It also directly contributes to the fourth NDP focus on job creation, youth empowerment, and sustainable exploitation of natural resources. Uganda has one of the youngest populations globally. Training youth in mining and entrepreneurship taps into this demographic advantage, turning potential unemployment into economic productivity. The training activities also bridge the gap between academic learning and market demands, preparing youth for real-world challenges in a rapidly evolving sector. The training’s emphasis on environmental responsibility and formalization aligns with global trends in Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) standards.
The initiative is part of a broader Africa-Caribbean-Pacific (ACP) and EU initiative, positioning Uganda as a leader in responsible mineral development and contributes to several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) —especially SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 8 (Decent Work), SDG 9 (Industry & Innovation), and SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption & Production).