TechPression

Tag: Uganda

  • Uganda lifts ban on Facebook after three years

    Uganda lifts ban on Facebook after three years

    Uganda on Monday lifted restrictions on Facebook, after three agonising years for entrepreneurs who have struggled to leverage the social media platform’s ad tools to reach their target market.

    The ban was initially imposed in 2021 after Facebook blocked accounts linked to the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM), leading to widespread economic hardship among entrepreneurs heavily reliant on the platform to advertise their products and services.

    Read also: Order on WhatsApp with Ubuy: a new way to shop across borders

    Impact on entrepreneurs

    Emmanuel Emodek, founder of Chap Chap, emphasised that the ban severely limited innovation and customer engagement opportunities. 

    In a recent statement reported by New Vision, Jane Nalubega, a local entrepreneur, expressed, “We are not just asking for Facebook to be unblocked; we are fighting for our livelihoods,” said Jane Nalubega, a local entrepreneur in Nakawa market. She also runs an online business that has shrunk by 70 per cent since the ban. “We urge the government to reconsider its stance and recognise the critical role Facebook plays in our economic survival.”

    With over 2.7 million users in Uganda, Facebook is essential for reaching customers and boosting sales, especially for small businesses.

    Dr Chris Baryomunsi, Uganda’s Minister for ICT and National Guidance, confirmed that discussions with Facebook were underway to restore access. He acknowledged social media’s significant role in economic activities and youth employment. 

    Prime Minister Robinah Nabanja emphasised Uganda’s youth’s creative potential, noting that their talents could ease the burden on government job creation efforts.

    Read also: Uganda’s KaFresh lands investment to extend shelf life of produce without refrigeration

    Looking ahead: Economic opportunities unlocked

    The government’s decision to reconsider the ban reflects a growing recognition of the importance of the digital economy. 

    Aminah Zawedde, permanent secretary for the Ministry of ICT, noted that youth unemployment remains a pressing concern, with about 30 percent of young people seeking better job opportunities. 

    Lifting the Facebook ban could support entrepreneurs and contribute to broader economic recovery.

    As Uganda prepares to reintegrate Facebook, many hope it will boost businesses and foster innovation in a country rich in talent and creativity.

  • Uganda launches fifth phase of National Data Transmission Backbone Infrastructure

    Uganda launches fifth phase of National Data Transmission Backbone Infrastructure

    Uganda has launched the fifth phase of its National Data Transmission Backbone Infrastructure (NBI) project in Moroto, northeastern Uganda, as part of strategic plans to enhance the country’s digital infrastructure and connectivity. The project inaugurated on December 4, is aimed at extending Internet access to underserved regions, reducing costs, and contributing to the broader goal of digital transformation across Uganda.

    At the launch, President Yoweri Museveni thanked the Chinese government for its continued support through soft loans, particularly via the Import-Export Bank (EXIM).

    “I thank the government of China for supporting a number of projects in Uganda using soft loans through the EXIM bank, including the NBI, which we have extended,” President Museveni said.

    Read also: Teraco’s R8 billion JB7 data centre to revamp Africa’s digital infrastructure

    Reducing the digital divide in Uganda

    The fifth phase of the NBI is being implemented by Huawei Technologies, with funding from China’s EXIM Bank, as part of the collaboration to bridge Uganda’s digital divide. This new phase will bring significant improvements in connectivity to remote areas of Uganda, which have long faced challenges in accessing high-quality internet services.

    Impact on Uganda’s economy and digital landscape

    According to Wang Jianxun, Counselor for Economic and Commercial Affairs at the Chinese Embassy in Uganda, China’s cooperation with Uganda is aligned with the country’s developmental needs. He emphasized the long-term nature of the partnership, stating, “China’s cooperation with Uganda follows the needs of Uganda’s development. We are looking forward to a stronger and closer relationship between China and Uganda in the coming years.”

    Read also: Paratus Botswana’s new fibre project to connect Southern African countries

    Driving digital inclusion for all

    Chris Baryomunsi, Uganda’s Minister of ICT and National Guidance, emphasised the importance of digital infrastructure in driving economic growth, improving service delivery in sectors like healthcare and education, and fostering overall socio-economic development. “We are committed to investing in ICT as a key pillar for national development,” Baryomunsi said.

    Gerald Oola, Huawei Technologies Uganda’s Solution Manager, highlighted the crucial role that the fifth phase of the NBI will play in advancing digital inclusion. “The project’s focus on digital inclusion will ensure that even the most remote communities can benefit from the advantages of digital transformation,” Oola explained.

    This expansion is expected to reduce the digital divide, particularly between rural and urban populations, and provide greater access to essential services like telemedicine and online education.

    As Uganda moves forward with its digital agenda, the ongoing partnership with China and Huawei is vital in ensuring the success and sustainability of the NBI project, further positioning the country as a leader in Africa’s digital transformation.
    Edited.

  • Uganda to expand Internet access with US$150 million loan from China

    Uganda to expand Internet access with US$150 million loan from China

    Chris Baryomunsi, Uganda’s Minister of Information, Communication, Technology, and National Guidance, has announced plans to use a loan obtained from the Exim Bank of China to provide internet access to all sub-counties across the country.

    With a US$150 million loan, Baryomunsi said, the government will connect all sub-counties to the National Backbone Infrastructure (NBI), surpassing the existing connections to ministries, departments, agencies (MDAs), and district headquarters.

    “This is vital for ensuring that all regions benefit from the digital economy. Last mile connectivity, the final segment connecting the NBI to end-users, is essential in achieving comprehensive access to e-Government services,” Baryomunsi said.

    Read also: Huawei sets ambitious goal to expand HarmonyOS with 100,000 new apps

    The announcement was made during a session of Parliament on Tuesday, November 26, 2024, presided over by Speaker Anita Among.

    Past loans to improve internet connectivity in Uganda 

    This new initiative follows previous loans aimed at enhancing Uganda’s internet connectivity. In 2022, the World Bank provided US$200 million for the Uganda Digital Acceleration Project (UDAP), of which US$60 million was a grant. Additionally, in 2023, the Exim Bank of China funded Phase V of the NBI with another US$150 million.

    In order to provide high-speed Internet to 1,567 MDAs, hospitals, districts, and other target groups, the government has so far installed 4,298.87 kilometres of optical fibre cable using the National Backbone Infrastructure, Baryomunsi told MPs.

    As part of the UDAP Project, the government plans to build 21 transmission sites, expand the last mile connection to 2,800 locations, and extend optical fiber cable to 63 additional districts. Baryomunsi also highlighted the expansion of electronic government services, such as the Parish Development Model Online System (PDMIS), the Health Management Information System (HMIS), and the Education Management Information System (EDMIS), the Integrated Financial Management Services (IFMS), the e-government Procurement system (e-GP), the e-Passport, the e-visa, and the e-Passport.

    Baryomunsi said, “Government has witnessed a significant increase in the adoption and use of e-services which has increased efficiency within government and improved public service delivery to citizens. We will benefit from additional economies of scale and bring the cost of internet bandwidth further down.”

    Read also: AXIAN Telecom rebrands subsidiaries to Yas, to unify operations across Africa

    Improved access at Uganda’s main borders

    According to information obtained by Parliament, at least 10 of Uganda’s main borders have been connected to Wi-Fi

    This development facilitates immigration services, customs clearance, and e-Visa applications.

    However, MPs raised concerns about the functionality of the 300 planned Wi-Fi hotspots, particularly the “MyUg” hotspots, which some reported as inaccessible.

    “I want the minister to look for MyUg Wi-Fi hotspot and see if it connects, it is not working yet it is one of the hotspots meant to serve urban centres,” Kalangala District Woman MP, Hon. Helen Nakimuli stated.

    Hon Helen Nakimuli, MP for Kalangala District, welcomed the government’s plan to expand internet infrastructure to island areas but urged better coordination between ministries responsible for road construction and ICT to ensure effective deployment.

    Hon Dickens Kateshumba, MP for Sheema Municipality, urged the government to monitor the impact of these digital initiatives, particularly focusing on access, affordability, and the benefits of the loans in improving production and public service delivery.

    “You have indicated in one of your loans, 47 per cent has been spent but your statement is largely a procurement activity. As Parliament, we would be interested in the impact in terms of access, affordability and the benefits on which the loans were premised,” Kateshumba said.

  • Kotani Pay launches in East Africa, merging cash and crypto for seamless payments

    Kotani Pay launches in East Africa, merging cash and crypto for seamless payments

    Kotani Pay, a licensed on-ramp and off-ramp service provider, is expanding its operations into Rwanda and Uganda. This is a significant step in enhancing digital payment accessibility across East Africa. 

    The fintech company announced the expansion via X on Wednesday, October 30: “Exciting news! Kotani Pay has expanded its on-ramp and off-ramp services to Rwanda and Uganda! This expansion is a key step in our mission to onboard the next million users across Africa.”

    With this move, Kotani Pay will offer a simplified, compliant, on-ramp/off-ramp API to local fintechs and Web3 companies in Rwanda and Uganda, enabling them to expand their reach and participate in the global digital economy.

    Read also: EBANX Africa announces new Director for Africa development

    Bridging fiat and crypto for local fintechs

    Kotani Pay’s API allows fintech companies to bridge fiat and crypto assets, supporting seamless cash-in and cash-out services across both traditional and digital currencies. This technology addresses the growing demand for borderless, agile payment solutions, providing local fintechs with essential tools to enhance user access to digital financial services. 

    Through Kotani Pay’s integration, fintech businesses can connect local mobile wallets and bank transfers to blockchain-based financial platforms, facilitating swift and secure transactions.

    Felix Macharia, CEO of Kotani Pay, expressed enthusiasm about the expansion’s potential impact: “As we expand into Rwanda and Uganda, we are thrilled to support our clients in navigating these dynamic markets. This expansion empowers fintech and Web3 companies to enter with confidence, removing the payment and technical barriers that have previously hindered innovation.”

    Read also: Investors reconsider shares investment in Jumia stocks

    Expanding opportunities for Web3 companies

    This expansion also creates new possibilities for Web3 businesses in Rwanda and Uganda, providing a streamlined on-ramp/off-ramp API that makes it easier for platforms, wallets, DeFi projects, and crypto exchanges to operate locally. With Kotani Pay’s API, Web3 companies can offer users seamless access to Rwandan franc and Ugandan shilling, bridging the gap between digital assets and traditional currencies. This functionality supports Web3 firms in addressing the rising demand for digital assets and providing local users with greater flexibility.

    Kotani Pay’s growth underscores its vision of unifying payment systems across Africa, addressing the continent’s unique financial landscape with seamless and adaptable solutions. Currently integrated with 15 major blockchain protocols, the company is helping to bridge payment fragmentation by offering scalable solutions for fintech and Web3 businesses. This expansion into Rwanda and Uganda aligns with Kotani Pay’s mission of delivering accessible, transparent financial solutions, advancing financial inclusion, and supporting regional innovation.

    With the official launch of operations in Uganda and Rwanda, Kotani Pay strengthens its position as a leader in Africa’s fintech and Web3 sectors. It is driving East Africa’s digital finance ecosystem forward by providing essential on-ramp and off-ramp services, enabling local businesses and users to thrive in the global digital economy.

  • MTN unveils new executives in Uganda

    MTN unveils new executives in Uganda

    MTN has unveiled three new executives to spearhead its operations in Uganda, adding to its robust workforce for efficient services.

    Thomas Motlepa, was appointed the Chief Technology and Information Officer (CTIO), Peace Kabatangare Zulu was tapped as the General Manager of Internal Audit and Forensics while Franklin Kano Ocharo was named the General Manager of Growth and New Business.

    MTN Uganda said the trio will bring their expertise and wide range of skills to  deliver exceptional value” at the network. 

    Read also: MTNMoMo partners PostBank Uganda to introduce ‘XtraCash’ to provide loans for subscribers

    “We are excited about the fresh perspectives and expertise each of these leaders brings to MTN Uganda. Their collective experience will be invaluable as we continue to innovate, grow, and deliver exceptional value to our customers and stakeholders,” MTN said in a statement.

    Thomas Motlepa – Chief Technology & Information Officer (CTIO)

    Thomas has over 20 years experience in the telecommunications sector including a strong background in engineering and technical leadership. Working with top telecom firms, he held managerial roles at MTN Ghana, MTN Zambia, and MTN Nigeria, among other MTN markets. His areas of expertise were network optimisation, digital transformation, and cutting-edge technological solutions.

    His background in project management and strategic planning has equipped him with a deep understanding of the customers’ needs and the state of technology. 

    Mr Motlepa, in his capacity as CTIO. will spearhead the organisation’s goal of giving its clients outstanding connectivity and services.

    According to MTN Uganda, Mr Motlepa’s “commitment to harnessing cutting-edge technology will be pivotal in enhancing our network capabilities and ensuring that we remain at the forefront of the telecom industry in Uganda.”

    Peace Kabatangare Zulu – General Manager of Internal Audit and Forensics

    Peace is a chartered accountant with over 13 years of audit expertise, risk management, and consulting. She has a strong foundation in internal controls and governance. 

    Her capacity to guarantee compliance and operational efficiency is demonstrated by her prior position as Chief Internal Auditor at the New Vision Group. 

    Ms Kabatangare-Zulu will strengthen the company’s internal audit department, helping it achieve its strategic goals and promoting an open and accountable culture.

    “Her expertise will ensure that we effectively manage risks and optimise our processes, reinforcing our commitment to responsible and sustainable business practices,” MTN Uganda said in a statement announcing her appointment. 

    Read also: MTN Ghana launches ‘Yellow Biz 4-in-One’ to help SMEs with advanced 4G internet solutions

    Franklin Kano Ocharo – General Manager of Growth and New Business

    Mr Ocharo has over 18 years of experience in the technology sector, specialising in company development, product management, and commercial strategy. 

    He has held roles at reputable IT firms in the past, where he managed teams to effectively build novel products and break into unexplored markets. Mr Ocharo’s ability to identify new consumer demands and market trends will be essential to MTN Uganda’s capacity to grow sustainably. 

    “His strategic vision and techno-commercial acumen will empower us to develop innovative solutions that cater to the evolving needs of our customers, aligning perfectly with our mission to lead the digital revolution in Uganda.” Mulinge Sylvia, CEO of MTN Uganda, wrote in a statement announcing Mr Ocharo’s appointment on LinkedIn. 

    “Their wealth of experience and proven leadership will be invaluable as we continue to innovate and drive our business forward,” the statement added.

  • Uganda Securities Exchange launches $1.4bn Airtel Uganda

    Uganda Securities Exchange launches $1.4bn Airtel Uganda

    The second-largest cell phone company, Airtel Uganda, will be able to trade on the Uganda Securities Exchange on November 7. The IPO of the telecom company didn’t raise as much money as planned—slightly more than Sh211 billion ($1.4 billion). The goal was to raise Sh800 billion ($5.2 billion).

    Airtel Uganda let the public buy 20% of its eight billion ordinary shares. It got 4,614 applications for just over 4.3 billion shares. A group called the National Social Security Fund (NSSF) put in an application for 10.55% of the company. Regular investors owned 0.34%. Telco is the 11th company to join the Uganda Securities Exchange, showing investors are interested in the company’s future.

    The first sale started on August 30, 2023, with 100 sh shares and buying incentives. Details and results of the IPO will be made public. In 2021, NSSF bought 1.9 billion MTN IPO shares, which gave it 8.84% of the company. 65% of the MTN IPO shares were bought.

    Read also: Airtel Uganda plans $216m Initial Public Offering 

    Airtel Uganda’s IPO and telecom market effects

    The telecom market and investors are discussing Airtel Uganda’s IPO and upcoming listing on the Ugandan bourse. Going public has significant repercussions for the telco and the industry.

    This IPO boosts telecom competition immediately. Airtel, the second-largest telecom operator in the country, gets listed on the stock market, increasing competition. Companies competing for market share and investor confidence will likely innovate and improve services.

    This listing should boost the Uganda Securities Exchange’s market cap. The sh211 billion raised shows investor confidence in telecoms and the economy. As more telecom businesses go public or develop, investment opportunities and economic growth may increase.

    A publicly listed corporation must be transparent and accountable. Airtel Uganda’s strict regulatory standards and public scrutiny can promote corporate governance and responsibility in the telecom business. This will improve the industry’s reputation and investor appeal.

    Other firms may follow Airtel’s lead. The sector’s growth boosts the economy and improves communication access.

    With its 10.55% holding in Airtel Uganda, the National Social Security Fund (NSSF) diversifies its investment portfolio. Diversifying the fund’s performance and financial stability may affect sectors other than telecommunications.

    Analysis of Airtel Africa’s shares within current economy

    Rural area connectivity and telecom expansion

    Rural areas have not had stable phone service for a long time. There aren’t many fast internet, cell phone, or data services in these places. This might change after Airtel Uganda’s IPO.

    More connections in rural places significantly affect the people who live there. Access to communications services can give people in rural areas more power by giving them tools for getting an education, medical care, and making money. Farmers, for example, can get market information, weather forecasts, and banking services, all of which help farms be more productive.

    Challenges Ahead

    Connectivity in distant areas looks like it will work, but problems still exist. Putting in new infrastructure in remote areas can cost a lot, so ensuring that services last and are cheap is very important. Also, regulators need help to make it easier for telecom networks to reach areas that aren’t well served yet.

  • Mastercard, others to promote financial inclusion in Uganda

    Mastercard, others to promote financial inclusion in Uganda

    An innovative partnership between Equity Bank Uganda and Mastercard has been officially established. This will lead to a focused effort to promote financial inclusion among Uganda’s digitally excluded people, communities, and businesses. 

    A memorandum of understanding (MoU) was signed to formalize the relationship. The two organisations aim to use technology to help underserved and marginalised groups find financial support.

    Read also: Arkel Consult and Management Services (ACMS) set to promote financial inclusion in Ghana

    Equity Bank uses Mastercard Community Pass

    Financial inclusion cards will allow people to save and spend online and offline safely.

    Community Pass credentials simplify and enable secure, privacy-first, and cost-effective access to many services. 

    Provide credit to individuals and businesses.

    Partnership with Ugandan tech businesses to expand Community Pass digital acceptance.

    Mastercard Community Pass facilitates digital inclusion and scales agricultural, micro-commerce, assistance, and healthcare activities commercially. Mastercard connects underserved, distant, and offline communities to digital life transaction solutions with Community Pass. 

    Daniel Huba, Mastercard Vice President of SSA Market Development, Community Pass, applauded the cooperation for increasing digital exposure, financial inclusion, credit-building, and digital services for disadvantaged and underprivileged groups. Community Pass securely and conveniently links the unbanked to formal financial services.”

    Equity Bank’s Executive Director of Public Sector and Social Investments, Elizabeth Mwerinde, stated future payment solutions support their strategy and customer-centricity.

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    Innovation Village partners with Mastercard, Equity Bank

    Equity Bank plans to cooperate with Innovation Village and Mastercard to support the Digital Economy Program and expand financial services.

    Our Innovation Village Digital Economy Practice Lead, Saul Weikama, said, “By leveraging digital infrastructure and a shared platform, we are dedicated to aligning solution providers with financial institutions and industry leaders… we are committed to driving growth and bolstering financial inclusion through the Digital Economy Program.”

    Beyond a partnership, the signing ceremony at the Kampala Serena Hotel represented the beginning of a future where financial inclusion is a reality for all Ugandans, regardless of technological level. This association helps customers and small companies succeed in the digital economy.

    Equity Bank and Mastercard are living in a future of financial freedom and inclusion, where technology makes it easier for everyone to participate.

  • Tanzania, Uganda sign landmark ICT agreement worth $28.8 million

    Tanzania, Uganda sign landmark ICT agreement worth $28.8 million

    In a significant move aimed at bolstering information and communication technology (ICT) connectivity, the governments of Tanzania and Uganda have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) worth $28.8 million (equivalent to 71.7 billion Tanzanian Shillings). The agreement focuses on the integration of the National ICT Broadband Backbone (NICTBB) of Tanzania with the Ugandan National ICT Backbone Infrastructure (NBI).

    A 15-Year Commitment

    This groundbreaking MoU is set to span a period of 15 years and will be executed through the collaborative efforts of the TTCL Corporation and the National Information Technology Authority, Uganda (NITA-U).

    The official signing ceremony was attended by key dignitaries from both nations, including TTCL Director General Peter Ulanga, NITA Executive Director Dr. Hatwib Mugasa, and Ministers for Information, Communication, and Information Technology, Nape Nnauye of Tanzania and Dr. Chris Baryomunsi of Uganda.

    Read also: Kenyan Govt. Creates Free Wi-Fi Hotspots, Other ICT Projects

    Enhancing ICT Utilisation

    Minister Nape emphasised that this MoU will serve as a catalyst for increased ICT utilisation between Tanzania and Uganda. He stated that the agreement would strengthen the bond between the two countries, fostering trade and economic growth.

    Nape underscored that this agreement stemmed from a commitment made during President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s recent visit to Uganda. During the visit, President Hassan and Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni agreed to integrate the ICT backbones of the two countries to enhance internet services.

    The Tanzanian Minister of Information, Communication, and Information Technology issued a directive to TTCL, emphasising the importance of delivering quality services as stipulated in the agreement. He urged for a seamless experience for users without complaints related to service access.

    A Broadening ICT Reach

    Minister Nape noted that Tanzania has successfully convinced several East African Community partner states, including Kenya, Burundi, Rwanda, and now Uganda, to connect to the NICTBB. Additionally, the initiative has extended to Southern African Development Community countries like Malawi, Zambia, and Mozambique, with progress underway for connecting Mozambique through Lake Tanganyika to Tanzania’s Kalemie province border.

    Benefits for Uganda

    Dr. Chris Baryomunsi, the Uganda Minister for ICT and National Guidance, expressed the shared vision of Tanzania and Uganda for enhanced connectivity. He predicted that this agreement would lead to a 50% reduction in the cost of doing business in Uganda, ultimately creating employment opportunities.

    Dr. Baryomunsi emphasised that this achievement is not only beneficial for the East African region but also opens doors to connect with other countries, including South Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

    Eng Peter Ulanga, TTCL Director General, highlighted the transformative impact of NICTBB’s presence in the East African region. It has played a pivotal role in driving developmental reforms in economic, commercial, social sectors, and security.

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    A Call for Professional Management

    Eng Ulanga affirmed TTCL’s commitment to professionally manage and maintain this critical infrastructure, ensuring that it continues to benefit Tanzania and its neighbouring countries. NICTBB is connected to submarine cables through SEACOM and EASSY, enhancing Uganda’s global communication capabilities.

    Ulanga extended an invitation to NITA-U and the Ugandan government to utilise the National Internet Data Centre (NIDC), offering Tier 3 quality and standards for data storage—a valuable asset for enhancing data security and accessibility.

    The signing of this MoU marks a significant step toward greater ICT integration between Tanzania and Uganda. It not only strengthens the partnership between the two nations but also serves as a model for regional collaboration, with the potential to bring transformative change and prosperity to the entire East African region.

    Uganda praises Tanzania’s sustainability measures in mining

    Meanwhile, Tanzania and Uganda are also partnering in the mining industry. Tanzania’s mining industry has received accolades from a delegation of Ugandan experts who visited the country to explore the nation’s mining practices. The Ugandan delegation, led by Dr. Elly Karuhanga, a renowned mining expert and former President of the Uganda Chamber of Mines and Petroleum, expressed their admiration for Tanzania’s mining practices. Dr. Karuhanga praised the nation’s commitment to responsible and sustainable mining, underscoring its significance for the wider African mining community.

  • Uganda experts lauds Tanzania mining practices 

    Uganda experts lauds Tanzania mining practices 

    Tanzania’s mining industry has received accolades from a delegation of Ugandan experts who visited the country to explore the nation’s mining practices. 

    The delegation, composed of mining professionals and policymakers, commended Tanzania for its sustainable and environmentally conscious approach to mining, highlighting the potential for shared learning and collaboration in the African mining sector.

    Ugandan Experts Impressed

    The Ugandan delegation, led by Dr. Elly Karuhanga, a renowned mining expert and former President of the Uganda Chamber of Mines and Petroleum, expressed their admiration for Tanzania’s mining practices. Dr. Karuhanga praised the nation’s commitment to responsible and sustainable mining, underscoring its significance for the wider African mining community.

    Read also: Tanzanian researchers unite to boost sustainable scientific advancement

    Sustainable Mining at the Forefront

    Tanzania’s mining sector has made significant strides in promoting sustainable and responsible mining practices. The country has introduced stringent regulations and guidelines to ensure that mining activities are carried out with minimal environmental impact and in compliance with international best practices.

    The delegation noted Tanzania’s emphasis on environmental stewardship, including the requirement for mining companies to rehabilitate mined-out areas. This commitment to land restoration and conservation aligns with global efforts to mitigate the environmental consequences of mining activities.

    Dr. Karuhanga emphasised the importance of fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing among African nations. He suggested that Uganda could benefit from Tanzania’s experiences and practices to enhance its own mining sector, particularly in the areas of sustainability, environmental protection, and community engagement.

    Tanzania is known for its abundant mineral resources, including gold, diamonds, and various precious and base metals. The nation’s mining sector plays a pivotal role in its economy, contributing significantly to government revenue and foreign exchange earnings.

    The Power of Responsible Mining

    Responsible mining practices have become increasingly important globally, with stakeholders, including governments, mining companies, and civil society organisations, recognizing the need to balance economic development with environmental and social responsibility.

    Tanzania’s Regulatory Framework

    Tanzania’s regulatory framework for the mining sector has evolved to reflect these priorities. The delegation from Uganda noted the country’s efforts to ensure that mining activities adhere to strict environmental and social standards.

    Tanzania’s mining industry has also made strides in fostering positive relationships with local communities. The delegation praised the industry’s initiatives aimed at empowering local communities through employment opportunities, skills development, and infrastructure development.

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    A Model for African Mining

    The visit by the Ugandan delegation highlights Tanzania’s emerging role as a model for sustainable mining practices in Africa. The nation’s commitment to environmental protection, responsible resource extraction, and community development serves as an example for other African countries seeking to harness their mineral wealth for the benefit of their citizens.

    As African nations continue to explore their mining potential, the importance of collaboration and knowledge sharing cannot be overstated. Tanzania’s willingness to share its experiences and expertise with neighbouring countries like Uganda underscores the spirit of cooperation needed to ensure that the continent’s mining industry contributes to sustainable development while safeguarding its natural heritage.

    Tanzania’s Commitment to Excellence

    Tanzania‘s mining industry’s recognition by Ugandan experts is a testament to the nation’s commitment to excellence in responsible resource management. As the African mining sector navigates the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century, Tanzania’s example shines brightly as a beacon of sustainable mining practices, setting the stage for a future in which economic growth goes hand in hand with environmental and social responsibility.

    Tanzania and Uganda are forging more technologically beneficial partnerships as part of plans of fostering a better relations between the two nations.

    The governments of the two African nations recently signed a 15 year deal worth $28.8 million (equivalent to 71.7 billion Tanzanian Shillings) to integrate the National ICT Broadband Backbone (NICTBB) of Tanzania with the Ugandan National ICT Backbone Infrastructure (NBI).

  • Uganda negotiates $4bn oil refinery with prospective partners

    Uganda negotiates $4bn oil refinery with prospective partners

    Uganda has begun discussions over the development of a potential oil refinery project with unnamed partners from Africa, the Middle East, and China. 

    The refinery would have the capacity to process 60,000 barrels of crude oil per day.

    This action is being taken in spite of the fact that the Albertine Graben Refinery Consortium (AGRC) would withdraw from the $4 billion refinery project in June of 2023.

    The AGRC was unable to fulfil the time schedule for making a final investment decision because it was unable to successfully obtain money for the project.

    Because of this, the consortium was stripped of its rights to construct the refinery, and the Ugandan government has been compelled to begin the process from the beginning.

    The news agency said that Ali Ssekatawa, director of legal and corporate affairs for the Uganda Petroleum Authority, stated that the Uganda National Oil Company will continue to progress the construction of the refinery project while the government hunts for a strategic project partner.

    The director promised that an update will be provided about the following measures within the next three months.

    The statement made by Ssekatawa was, “There is a lot of appetite and interest in developing the refinery.”

    The fact that discussions have taken place with the Algerian state-owned enterprise Sonatrach was verified by him. Discussions have also begun with a number of interested parties from China, the Middle East, and Africa at this point.

    Ssekatawa continued by saying, “The preferred option is the Uganda National Oil Company working together with another national oil company to take forward this project.”

    AGEC has already finished the front-end engineering and design work for the planned project, in addition to conducting environmental impact studies.

    In addition, according to Ssekatawa, the majority of the land necessary for the construction of the refinery and the related pipes has been purchased and cleared.

    In Kabaale Parish, located in Buseruka Sub-county, Hoima District, the planned refinery would be constructed over a land area that is 29 km squared.

    The companies that makeup AGRC are as follows: the Oil and Gas branch of General Electric, YAATRA Ventures (US) of India, Intercontinental Asset Holdings, and Saipem of Italy.

    Read also: Nigeria launches Dangote refinery in Lagos

    Uganda’s earlier sojourn in oil and gas

    In 2021, Uganda began attempts to launch its first oil and gas initiatives. As a landlocked nation, all assets are located on land, near Lake Albert, on the country’s western border with the Democratic Republic of the Congo. 

    The Jobi-Rii discovery on the northern end of the lake in 2009 was the largest basin discovery to date. The first discoveries were made almost 15 years ago with the Kingfisher-1 well on the southern end of the lake, followed by the Jobi-Rii discovery on the northern end of the lake in 2009.

    In 2015, Uganda held its first licensing round, offering six blocks and granting two licences. Tullow was the operator of the blocks for a number of years and made multiple discoveries that it planned to farm down in 2017. 

    After a lengthy process, this was denied, but it was agreed that Tullow would transfer its entire equity stake in the properties to Total in 2020. Total and CNOOC were unable to reach a definitive investment decision in 2020 due to the effects of COVID-19 and budgetary constraints. 

    The companies remained anxious to obtain approval for the multibillion-dollar Tilenga and Kingfisher projects, and a decision was made on April 9, 2021, with the first crude expected in 2025.

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    Expectations ahead of 2025 Tilenga and Kingfisher projects completion

    Kingfisher oilfield is expected to produce 40,000 barrels each day when production is at its peak, while Tilenga is expected to produce 190,000 barrels. Both form a key part of a major national project expected to be completed within two years.

    Uganda is estimated to have recoverable oil reserves of at least 1.4 billion barrels. Drilling began in January this year (2023), the project is expected to be completed within two years.