Youth Mining Day Positions Young Ugandans to Drive Jobs and Investment

What the report says

Youth Mining Day 2026 in Uganda brought together more than 250 young people, along with industry stakeholders, to encourage youth participation in the country’s minerals sector. The event was organised by the Junior Uganda Chamber of Energy and Minerals (JUCEM), the youth wing of the Uganda Chamber of Energy and Minerals, in partnership with Busitema University. According to Nile Post, the gathering focused on skills, innovation, entrepreneurship, networking and investment opportunities linked to mining and wider mineral value chains.

The programme was presented as part of efforts to help young Ugandans move beyond seeing mining as a narrow technical field. Organisers and speakers said the sector now needs people with skills in geoscience, processing, safety, environmental management, digital systems, logistics, finance, communications and business development. They also pointed to persistent barriers such as limited industry exposure and unclear career pathways for young people.

Busitema University Vice Chancellor Paul Waako highlighted the university’s role in research and training, while UCEM chief executive Humphrey Asiimwe called for more mentorship and practical opportunities from private-sector players. Representatives from GIZ and UNDP stressed the need for internships, curriculum support, inclusive governance and responsible mineral value chains. State Minister for Energy and Mineral Development Phiona Nyamutoro said the government wants young Ugandans to benefit more directly from Uganda’s mineral wealth.

The event is part of broader regional outreach that JUCEM says has reached more than 200 young people in several towns and campuses. It reflects a wider push in Uganda to link mineral development with jobs, value addition and long-term investment, although the report does not give a specific policy decision or funding commitment from the meeting.