Uganda Launches First Large-Scale Gold Refinery to Boost Export Revenues

By Jayden Bagshaw

Uganda has inaugurated its first large-scale gold mine and refinery in the eastern region, a $250 million investment led by a Chinese consortium. The facility is capable of refining gold to 99.9% purity, positioning Uganda as a key player in the global bullion market.

President Yoweri Museveni hailed the project as a milestone in Uganda’s economic transformation, noting that it will significantly increase export revenues and reduce the need to ship raw minerals abroad. The refinery is expected to create thousands of jobs and attract further investment in mining and metallurgy.

Uganda’s move aligns with a broader continental push to add value to raw materials before export. By refining gold domestically, the country aims to retain more wealth, improve trade balances, and strengthen its industrial base.