Specific Remarks:

Uganda is a member state of the International Conference on the Great Lakes Region (ICGLR), and it hosts the Regional Training Facility (RTF) in Kampala. The RTF focuses on preventing and suppressing Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV). Uganda also participates in other ICGLR initiatives, including the Expanded Joint Verification Mechanism (EJVM) and the Joint Intelligence Fusion Centre (JIFC).

Uganda Minerals Certification Situation

Uganda has implemented a mineral certification system, particularly for "conflict minerals," to ensure ethical and responsible sourcing of minerals. This system, adopted in partnership with the International Conference on the Great Lakes Region (ICGLR) and the German Federal Institute for Geosciences and Natural Resources (BGR), aims to combat illegal mining activities, human rights abuses, and revenue loss. The certification process helps miners and exporters demonstrate that their minerals are conflict-free, opening access to international markets.

Key aspects of Uganda's mineral certification system:

• Conflict Minerals:

The certification mechanism specifically addresses minerals linked to armed conflict, human rights abuses, and illegal activities.

• ICGLR Involvement:

Uganda is part of the ICGLR's regional certification scheme and has enacted the ICGLR Act (Cap 188) to give it legal force.

• Compliance:

Uganda has taken steps to comply with the ICGLR's standards, including enacting regulations and developing guidelines for mineral tracking and certification.

• Registration:

The country has established a BRASM system to register artisanal miners, with thousands already registered at various gold mining sites.

• Challenges:

Despite progress, challenges remain in fully implementing and enforcing the certification system. Some reports indicate that a portion of Uganda's gold exports may originate from illicit sources in neighboring countries, highlighting the need for stronger enforcement and transparency.

Specific actions taken:

• Enactment of laws and regulations:

Uganda has enacted the Mining and Minerals Act (2022) and related regulations, which provide a legal framework for the mining sector.

• Development of guidelines:

Guidelines have been developed for the "Chain of Custody" system and for third-party audits of exporters.

• Mine site inspections:

Uganda has conducted inspections of 3TG mine sites using a site inspection checklist.

• Registration of artisanal miners:

The BRASM system is used to register artisanal and small-scale miners.

Overall, Uganda's efforts to implement a mineral certification system are a positive step towards promoting responsible mining practices and ensuring that mineral wealth benefits all Ugandans. However, further efforts are needed to address challenges related to illicit financial flows and ensure full compliance with the certification scheme.