Licensed Mineral Dealers in Uganda: A Comprehensive Guide
Licensed Mineral Dealers in Uganda: Uganda, often referred to as the “Pearl of Africa,” is not only renowned for its stunning landscapes and biodiversity but also for its rich mineral resources.
The country’s mineral sector has been a cornerstone of its economy, contributing significantly to foreign exchange earnings, employment, and infrastructure development.
As of January 2026, Uganda’s mining industry is regulated by the Directorate of Geological Survey and Mines (DGSM) under the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development (MEMD).
This body oversees the granting, monitoring, and renewal of licenses for exploration, mining, and dealing in minerals. With a focus on sustainable and responsible mining, Uganda has implemented stringent regulations to ensure that mineral trade benefits the nation while minimizing environmental impacts and illegal activities.
The mineral wealth of Uganda includes gold, tin, tungsten, iron ore, limestone, and rare earth elements, among others. Gold, in particular, has emerged as a dominant player in the sector.
According to recent reports, Uganda exported over 30 tons of gold in 2025, valued at approximately $2 billion, making it one of the top gold producers in East Africa.
This surge is attributed to artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM) activities, as well as investments from both local and international firms. However, to participate legally in the mineral trade, entities must obtain a Mineral Dealer’s License, which allows them to buy, sell, export, or refine minerals.
These licenses are issued annually and require compliance with environmental standards, tax obligations, and anti-money laundering protocols.
Regulatory Framework for Mineral Dealers
The foundation of Uganda’s mineral licensing system is the Mining and Minerals Act of 2022, which replaced the outdated 2003 Act. This legislation emphasizes value addition, local content, and equitable benefit sharing.
To obtain a Mineral Dealer’s License, applicants must submit proof of financial capability, a business plan, environmental impact assessments, and evidence of compliance with international standards like the International Conference on the Great Lakes Region (ICGLR) certification for conflict-free minerals.
The DGSM maintains a public portal where active licenses are listed, updated weekly. As of January 2026, licenses typically run from January to December, with renewals required annually.
Failure to renew can result in revocation, and unlicensed dealing is punishable by fines or imprisonment. The government has also established mineral markets and buying centers near mining sites to regulate trade, promote fair pricing, and curb smuggling.
This initiative, announced in late 2025, aims to empower artisanal miners by providing licensed points for selling their produce, ensuring traceability from mine to market.
Gold dealing, in particular, is under scrutiny due to its high value and vulnerability to illicit trade. Dealers must verify the origin of gold to avoid sourcing from conflict zones in neighboring countries like the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
Uganda’s strategic location makes it a hub for regional gold trade, but this has also led to concerns about “blood gold.” To address this, the government mandates assay reports and export permits, aligning with global standards set by organizations like the London Bullion Market Association (LBMA).
List of Licensed Mineral Dealers in Uganda
Based on the latest available data from the official Mining Cadastre Portal as of early 2026, here is a comprehensive list of active Mineral Dealer’s Licenses. All listed licenses are for the period ending December 31, 2025, but many holders are expected to renew for 2026.
The list includes license numbers, types, status, start and expiry dates, and holder names. Note that most are Mineral Dealer’s Licenses, with some potentially involved in refining. Commodities are not always specified, but many deal in gold, tin, and other precious minerals.
|
License Number |
Type |
Status |
Start Date |
Expiry Date |
Holder Name |
|
MDL20250459 |
Mineral Dealer’s License |
Active |
1/13/2025 |
12/31/2025 |
Sagemin Trading Limited |
|
MDL20250460 |
Mineral Dealer’s License |
Active |
1/16/2025 |
12/31/2025 |
Feldstein Trading Limited |
|
MDL20250461 |
Mineral Dealer’s License |
Active |
1/20/2025 |
12/31/2025 |
Native Power Company |
|
MDL20250462 |
Mineral Dealer’s License |
Active |
1/21/2025 |
12/31/2025 |
TIMOTHY AINABYONA |
|
MDL20250463 |
Mineral Dealer’s License |
Active |
1/21/2025 |
12/31/2025 |
Nam Global Minerals Limited |
|
MDL20250464 |
Mineral Dealer’s License |
Active |
1/21/2025 |
12/31/2025 |
Abyssinia Iron and Steel (Uganda) Limited |
|
MDL20250465 |
Mineral Dealer’s License |
Active |
1/21/2025 |
12/31/2025 |
Canary Wharf Limited |
|
MDL20250466 |
Mineral Dealer’s License |
Active |
1/22/2025 |
12/31/2025 |
Abuziad Gold and Silver Investments Limited |
|
MDL20250467 |
Mineral Dealer’s License |
Active |
1/22/2025 |
12/31/2025 |
FARU TRADING UGANDA LIMITED |
|
MDL20250468 |
Mineral Dealer’s License |
Active |
1/23/2025 |
12/31/2025 |
A & A Gold Corporation |
|
MDL20250469 |
Mineral Dealer’s License |
Active |
1/23/2025 |
12/31/2025 |
XG Global Trading Limited |
|
MDL20250470 |
Mineral Dealer’s License |
Active |
1/24/2025 |
12/31/2025 |
Haki Yako Limited |
|
MDL20250471 |
Mineral Dealer’s License |
Active |
1/24/2025 |
12/31/2025 |
Taps Clearing & Forwarding Company Limited |
|
MDL20250472 |
Mineral Dealer’s License |
Active |
1/24/2025 |
12/31/2025 |
Xau Gold Trading Limited |
|
MDL20250473 |
Mineral Dealer’s License |
Active |
1/24/2025 |
12/31/2025 |
Orofino Investments Limited |
|
MDL20250474 |
Mineral Dealer’s License |
Active |
1/28/2025 |
12/31/2025 |
Brinks Mineral Logistics Limited |
|
MDL20250475 |
Mineral Dealer’s License |
Active |
1/28/2025 |
12/31/2025 |
Euro Gold Refinery (U) SMC Limited |
|
MDL20250476 |
Mineral Dealer’s License |
Active |
1/28/2025 |
12/31/2025 |
Euro Gold Refinery (U) SMC Limited |
|
MDL20250477 |
Mineral Dealer’s License |
Active |
1/28/2025 |
12/31/2025 |
Spirou Group Refinery Co. Limited |
|
MDL20250478 |
Mineral Dealer’s License |
Active |
1/28/2025 |
12/31/2025 |
Aramiel Gold Trading Limited |
|
MDL20250479 |
Mineral Dealer’s License |
Active |
1/29/2025 |
12/31/2025 |
HP3 Global Limited |
|
MDL20250480 |
Mineral Dealer’s License |
Active |
1/29/2025 |
12/31/2025 |
East African Extractive Partners Limited |
|
MDL20250481 |
Mineral Dealer’s License |
Active |
1/29/2025 |
12/31/2025 |
International University of East Africa |
|
MDL20250482 |
Mineral Dealer’s License |
Active |
1/30/2025 |
12/31/2025 |
The Kampala Industries and Infrastructure Development Limited |
|
MDL20250483 |
Mineral Dealer’s License |
Active |
1/30/2025 |
12/31/2025 |
Diamond Steel Uganda Limited |
This list represents a snapshot; for the most current information, stakeholders should consult the DGSM portal directly. Many of these dealers are based in Kampala, with operations extending to mining regions like Karamoja, Mubende, and Busia.
Focus on Gold Bar Suppliers and Market Dynamics
Within the licensed framework, gold bar suppliers play a pivotal role in Uganda’s mineral trade. Gold is often refined into 24K gold bars, which are 99.99% pure and highly sought after for investment and jewelry.
Entities like 24K Gold Bars Africa specialize in sourcing and supplying these bars from certified African mines, including those in Uganda. They emphasize ethical sourcing, providing assay reports to ensure purity and compliance.
Similarly, Buy Cheap Gold Bars Africa Ltd offers competitive pricing for bulk purchases, targeting international buyers looking for affordable yet high-quality gold bars from East Africa.
This company, along with other gold bar suppliers, facilitates exports by handling logistics, documentation, and secure transportation.
For instance, gold bar suppliers in Uganda often partner with licensed dealers like Euro Gold Refinery (U) SMC Limited to refine raw gold into standardized bars.
The market for gold bars in Uganda is booming, driven by global demand and rising prices. In 2025, gold prices averaged $2,500 per ounce, making 24K gold bars an attractive hedge against inflation.
Local suppliers like Atlas Gold Uganda and Novalex Gold provide services from mining to export, ensuring traceability. However, buyers must beware of scams; some unlicensed operators have been reported in online forums, emphasizing the importance of dealing only with licensed entities.
Economic Impact and Challenges
The mineral sector contributes about 2.5% to Uganda’s GDP, with potential for growth to 10% by 2030 through value addition. Gold exports alone support thousands of jobs in ASM, where over 200,000 Ugandans are employed. Initiatives like the Mineral Development Programme (MDP)aim to formalize ASM, providing training and equipment to improve safety and yields.
Challenges include environmental degradation, child labor in some areas, and smuggling. The government is addressing these through stricter enforcement and international partnerships. For example, the 2025 redevelopment of Kilembe Mines for copper and cobalt signals diversification beyond gold.
Future Outlook
Looking ahead to 2026 and beyond, Uganda’s mineral sector is poised for expansion with investments in exploration and refining. Companies like Vangold Resources and Optima Mines are leading the charge.
For buyers interested in 24K gold bars from Africa, partnering with licensed dealers ensures legitimacy. Entities such as Buy Cheap Gold Bars Africa Ltd and general gold bar suppliers offer gateways to this lucrative market, promising returns amid global economic uncertainties.
In conclusion, Uganda’s licensed mineral dealers form the backbone of a vibrant industry. By adhering to regulations and choosing reputable suppliers, stakeholders can capitalize on the country’s mineral wealth responsibly.