Former Finance Minister Maria Kiwanuka has been appointed as the acting chairperson of the Uganda National Mining Company (UNMC). This appointment was made following changes to the company's board leadership. Kiwanuka, who is already a member of the UNMC board, assumes the position with immediate effect. Her appointment comes after the resignation of board chairperson James Mukasa Ssebugenyi and the termination of vice chairperson James Byagaba's appointment.
The changes to the UNMC board were communicated by the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development on September 24, 2026. The statement, signed by Minister Monica Musenero Masanza, indicated that the changes aim to address governance and management challenges affecting UNMC. Kiwanuka is expected to lead efforts to strengthen corporate governance at the state-owned mining company. She will also oversee a recovery program focused on board effectiveness and performance management.
Uganda's government has identified mining as a key sector in its Ten-Fold Growth Strategy. The sector is expected to make a leading contribution to economic transformation. Kiwanuka's appointment comes as the country seeks to increase state participation in the mining sector and secure greater economic returns from its mineral resources. The UNMC plays a crucial role in Uganda's efforts to develop and benefit from its mineral wealth.
As the acting chairperson of UNMC, Kiwanuka will be responsible for leading the company's board. Her experience as a former Finance Minister is expected to be beneficial in this role. Kiwanuka's appointment is seen as a strategic move to enhance the company's governance and management. The Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development aims to ensure that UNMC operates efficiently and effectively.
The Uganda National Mining Company is a state-owned enterprise that manages the country's mining sector. The company's performance has a significant impact on Uganda's economy. With Kiwanuka at the helm, UNMC is expected to play a greater role in the country's economic development. The company's recovery program will focus on improving board effectiveness and performance management.
Kiwanuka's appointment as acting chairperson of UNMC is a significant development in Uganda's mining sector. Her leadership is expected to bring about positive changes in the company's governance and management. The Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development will continue to monitor UNMC's performance and provide guidance as needed.
The changes to UNMC's board leadership reflect the government's commitment to improving the country's mining sector. Kiwanuka's experience and expertise will be essential in driving the company's growth and development. The government's goal is to increase state participation in the mining sector and secure greater economic returns from Uganda's mineral resources.
Key points
- Maria Kiwanuka's appointment as acting chairperson of UNMC aims to address governance and management challenges affecting the company.
- The Ugandan government has identified mining as a key sector in its Ten-Fold Growth Strategy.
- Kiwanuka's experience as a former Finance Minister is expected to be beneficial in her new role at UNMC.
