Uganda Moves to Eliminate Mercury from Gold Mines

Gold mining is a significant economic activity in Uganda, attracting many young people and women. However, the use of mercury in gold extraction poses serious health risks to miners, including cancer. The Ministry of Energy has announced plans to roll out mercury-free technologies in Kasanda, Mubende, and parts of Karamoja. This move aims to reduce the health risks associated with mercury use.

The use of mercury in gold mining has been a longstanding concern in Uganda. Mercury is used to extract gold from ore, but it can have severe health consequences for miners, including neurological damage and cancer. The Ugandan government has been working to address this issue, and the Ministry of Energy's announcement marks a significant step towards reducing mercury use.

Experts have been calling for the adoption of mercury-free technologies in Uganda's gold mining sector. These technologies use alternative methods, such as gravity separation and flotation, to extract gold without mercury. The Ministry of Energy's plan to roll out these technologies in Kasanda, Mubende, and Karamoja regions is expected to benefit many miners who are currently exposed to mercury.

The Ministry of Energy's initiative is part of a broader effort to promote sustainable and responsible mining practices in Uganda. The government has been working to strengthen regulations and enforcement in the mining sector, including measures to reduce environmental and health impacts. The adoption of mercury-free technologies is a key part of this effort.

The roll-out of mercury-free technologies in Kasanda, Mubende, and Karamoja regions is expected to be completed soon. The Ministry of Energy has assured miners and local communities that the new technologies will be safe and effective. The government has also promised to provide support and training to miners to help them adapt to the new technologies.

Uganda's gold mining sector has significant potential for growth and development. The adoption of mercury-free technologies is expected to contribute to this growth while reducing health and environmental risks. The government's initiative is also expected to have positive impacts on local communities, including improved health and livelihoods.

The elimination of mercury from Uganda's gold mines is a significant step towards promoting sustainable and responsible mining practices. The Ministry of Energy's initiative is a positive development, and experts are optimistic about the potential impacts on miners' health and the environment. The government must continue to support and enforce regulations to ensure a safe and healthy mining sector.

Key points

• The Ugandan government plans to roll out mercury-free mining technology in Kasanda, Mubende, and Karamoja regions.