Uganda has commenced a significant uranium exploration initiative in Buhweju District, marking a crucial step in the country’s energy development. The Nuclear Energy Department of the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development has initiated an awareness campaign in Buhweju, signaling the beginning of a comprehensive nationwide uranium exploration program.
On Monday, November 27, the ministry’s technical team engaged with political and civic leaders at the Buhweju District headquarters in Western Uganda. Emmanuel Wamala, the acting assistant commissioner for nuclear fuel, emphasized the importance of uranium in Uganda’s diverse energy landscape. He stated that the goal is not only to meet current energy needs but to secure the energy future for future generations.
The exploration in Buhweju is part of a larger national strategy that includes potential resources from hydropower, biomass, solar, and uranium. Wamala highlighted the critical role of nuclear energy in realizing Uganda’s Vision 2040 and meeting the 52,481 MW capacity target, with 24,000 MW allocated to nuclear energy.
Godfrey Tumwebaze, the Buhweju Deputy Resident District Commissioner, emphasized the significance of the project for Uganda’s economic and population growth. He noted that nuclear power offers a stable and clean energy source essential for industrialization efforts.
The national uranium exploration initiative spans several districts, including Arua, Pakwach, Adjumani, Masindi, Mbarara, Hoima, Kitgum, Kabarole, and Sembabule. Tumwebaze assured the community about the safety and benefits of the project, emphasizing the importance of uranium in achieving Uganda’s developmental goals.
Addressing concerns about safety, Tumwebaze assured the community that the approach to uranium exploration and mining focuses on harnessing the resource while ensuring the benefits are shared with local communities. Robert Abenaitwe, the Buhweju Chief Administrative Officer, emphasized the expectation that exploration and mining activities would result in tangible benefits for the districts involved, including infrastructure development and job creation.
