Euro Gold Launches Small-Scale Gold Mining Project in Yumbe

YUMBE — August 20, 2026: Under the very hot sun and intense heat of Yumbe, residents, local leaders, mining stakeholders and government officials gathered for the launch of the Euro Gold Refinery Ltd Small-Scale Gold Mining Project, an investment that has raised hopes for jobs, infrastructure and economic growth in West Nile.

The scorching afternoon heat saw people sweating heavily, including officials dressed in formal suits, but it did little to dampen the excitement surrounding the launch.

The event, which ran from 1pm to 5pm, combined official proceedings with community entertainment. A local women’s group entertained the crowd with dance and music, while J Hope Band was also represented.

For many residents, however, the excitement went beyond the performances. The community is looking forward to seeing the mining investment translate into jobs, improved infrastructure, business opportunities and other development benefits.

The launch marks a major step in efforts to formalise artisanal and small-scale mining while promoting responsible exploitation of Uganda’s mineral resources.

Government backs the project

State Minister for Mineral Development Phiona Nyamutoro said the launch demonstrates Government’s commitment to developing Uganda’s mineral sector under the Fourth National Development Plan (NDP IV).

Nyamutoro said Yumbe and Zombo are among areas with significant gold potential in West Nile and urged Euro Gold Refinery Ltd to comply with mining laws and ensure the project benefits surrounding communities.

She called on the company to create employment and internship opportunities and progressively develop its operations into medium- and large-scale mining.

“Government is committed to developing the mineral sector under NDP IV,” Nyamutoro said.

The minister also reaffirmed Government’s determination to close illegal mining operations and called for improved safety, insurance and healthcare for miners.

Euro Gold targets 20kg of gold per week

Benard Feni, also known as Mungu Feni, CEO of Euro Gold Refinery Ltd, said the company spent more than two years conducting surveys and exploration before securing its mining ground.

Feni said the company’s operations cover approximately 79 square kilometres across West Nile, with Yumbe serving as its pioneer site.

He said the company is targeting production of at least 20 kilogrammes of gold per week and plans to establish a processing plant to strengthen traceability, accountability and value addition.

“We are going to build our nation,” Feni said.

The company’s plans have generated expectations among residents, who hope the investment will create opportunities for local people and stimulate economic activity in the district.

Miners urged to embrace formalisation

Assimwe Kenneth, CEO of the Uganda Association of Artisanal and Small-Scale Miners, commended Euro Gold and Government for supporting efforts to formalise artisanal and small-scale mining.

He urged communities to keep children in school and away from mining activities.

Assimwe also encouraged miners to use personal protective equipment (PPE) and called for accessible insurance schemes to protect small-scale miners against accidents and other risks.

Mineral Police warn against illegal mining

Tusigwire Julius, Head of the Mineral Police Unit, said the unit, established in 2017, is responsible for combating illegal mining, mineral smuggling, fraud and forced labour.

He revealed that more than 15 illegal mining sites have been closed this year, while raising concern over recent deaths at illegal mining sites.

Tusigwire called for greater compliance with mining regulations and improved safety at mining sites.

Children barred from mining sites

Eng. Grace Nakku, from the Office of the Commissioner, Minerals and Energy Department, said responsible mining is essential for attracting investment and growing Uganda’s mineral sector.

Nakku advised that only people aged 18 years and above should enter mining sites, warning against exposing children to mining-related risks.

She encouraged Euro Gold to scale up its operations while continuing to support artisanal and small-scale miners.

Yumbe community looks to development

The launch has created renewed optimism among residents who see gold mining as a potential driver of development in the district.

Local communities are particularly anticipating improvements in infrastructure and increased economic activity as the project expands.

The presence of cultural performances at the launch added a local touch to the occasion, reflecting the community’s enthusiasm for the new investment.

However, stakeholders stressed that the success of the project will depend on responsible mining, environmental protection, worker safety and ensuring that communities hosting the mineral resources benefit from the investment.

For Yumbe, the launch represents more than the beginning of a mining project. It is a moment of expectation as residents look to the district’s gold resources to create jobs, investment, infrastructure and better livelihoods.

The project also reinforces Government’s push for a formal, safe and investment-driven mining sector that can contribute to Uganda’s economic transformation while ensuring that mineral wealth benefits both investors and host communities.