Steps to Securely Buy and Sell Gold In Uganda

What Is a Gold Mining License in Uganda?

A Gold Mining License in Uganda is an official permit issued by the Directorate of Geological Survey and Mines (DGSM) under the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development.

It allows individuals, companies, or joint ventures to explore, extract, or deal in gold within specified areas in Uganda.

Licensing is mandatory for both artisanal (small-scale) and industrial (large-scale) mining operations. Uganda Gold Deposits. Find out more about Uganda Gold Mines Here

Types of Gold Mining Licenses in Uganda

Location License (Artisanal Mining)

For Ugandan nationals or local companies

It always covers small-scale gold mining with 16 hectares or less.
It is valid for 2 years, and it is renewable
Which is issued at the district level with DGSM oversight

Exploration License

For both local and foreign investors
Permits exploration over up to 500 km²
Valid for 3 years, renewable up to two times
Requires a work plan and exploration budget

Mining Lease (Production License)

For large-scale operations and companies with proven reserves
Requires feasibility studies, EIA, and financial commitment
Valid for 21 years, renewable

Mineral Dealer’s License

For buying, selling, and exporting gold
Needed by traders, brokers, or exporters
Must register with Uganda Revenue Authority (URA)

Requirements to Obtain a Gold Mining License in Uganda (2025)

To apply, you need to have proof of citizenship or business registration, geological survey data or maps of the target area,

Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) (for large-scale), Landowner agreements or surface rights documents, Work plan & financial capacity proof and application fees and annual license fees which (varies by license type). Uganda Gold Deposits

Step-by-Step: How to Apply for a Gold Mining License in Uganda

Choose the License Type (Location, Exploration, Lease)
Submit Application to DGSM via the Mining Cadastre Portal via https://portal.dgsm.go.ug/
Pay Required Fees
Undergo Due Diligence & Background Check
Receive Approval or Feedback from the Commissioner
Get Final Documentation & Begin Operations

Fees for Gold Mining Licenses in Uganda (Estimated 2025)

License Type	Application Fee	Annual Fee (Per km²)
Location License	UGX 100,000	UGX 250,000
Exploration License	UGX 500,000	UGX 750,000
Mining Lease	UGX 2,000,000	UGX 3,000,000
Dealer’s License	UGX 1,000,000	Flat rate (varies)

(Note: Fees subject to updates from DGSM and URA in 2025)

Can Foreigners Apply for Gold Mining Licenses in Uganda?

Yes. Foreign nationals or companies can apply for Exploration Licenses and Mining Leases, but they must partner with a local entity (optional but encouraged), make sure they comply with Ugandan investment laws, and register with the Uganda Investment Authority (UIA)

Gold Mining License Regulations in Uganda (2025)

Mandatory Licensing Under the Mining and Minerals Act (2022–2025)

All individuals or companies involved in gold exploration, mining, or dealing must obtain a valid license from the Directorate of Geological Survey and Mines (DGSM). This helps to formalize mining activities, ensure tax compliance, and prevent illegal gold trade.

Applies To:

Artisanal miners (Location License)
Industrial miners (Exploration/Mining Lease)
Traders/exporters (Mineral Dealer’s License)

Landowner Consent and Surface Rights Agreement

Before mining begins, license holders must obtain written consent from landowners or communities living on the mining site it helps to protect local land rights, reduce disputes, and promote peaceful co-existence between miners and host communities.

It’s required for

Location License
Mining Lease
Any surface disturbing activity

Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA)

All large-scale miners must conduct an Environmental and Social Impact Assessment and obtain a Certificate of Approval from the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) before operations start. This helps to ensure sustainable mining, waste management, and mitigation of environmental damage.

Applies To:

Mining Lease applicants
Exploration projects involving drilling or land disturbance

Royalty and Tax Obligations (2025 Update)

All license holders must pay royalties on all gold extracted, along with applicable corporate taxes and fees as specified by the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA).

Royalty Rate (2025):

5% for large-scale operations
3% for small-scale miners

Its purpose is to generate national revenue and ensure fair contribution from Uganda’s gold sector. Gold

Export from Uganda: What You Need to Know

Export taxes and royalties apply (updated in 2025 Mining Act)

Gold purity must be verified (minimum 22K–24K)

Export permits are required from DGSM

Transactions must pass through licensed refineries or dealers

Uganda has become one of Africa’s most promising destinations for gold investment, thanks to its estimated 31 million tonnes of gold ore and supportive government reforms.

With new infrastructure, legal clarity, and foreign investor incentives in place, the country offers both high rewards and significant risks and below is a balanced guide on what to expect.