By: Nile post

Uganda is nearing a significant milestone with its internationally certified mineral testing laboratory. This achievement is anticipated to drastically reduce the expenses associated with sending mineral samples abroad for analysis and to enhance investor confidence in the nation's mining sector, according to the Minister of Energy and Mineral Development, Ruth Nankabirwa.

Minister Nankabirwa delivered these remarks during the official opening of the 17th Annual General Meeting of the Organisation of African Geological Surveys (OAGS) in Entebbe. This marked the first time the AGM was hosted in East Africa, gathering geoscientists, policymakers, and geological survey leaders from across the continent to deliberate on the strategic future of Africa's mineral and geoscience sector.

The minister revealed that Uganda's national laboratory, which was established to support mineral analysis and value addition, is now 93% complete. It is close to obtaining the crucial international certification that would allow it to process all mineral sample testing domestically. She explained that for years, investors were encouraged to add value within Uganda, but many still preferred sending samples to internationally certified labs abroad.

Once certified, the laboratory will provide investors with the confidence to conduct all necessary tests within Uganda, eliminating the need and cost of sending samples to distant locations like Australia. The facility, originally established in 2007 under the New Partnership for Africa’s Development, is now affiliated with the African Union and plays a critical role in mineral assessment, environmental protection, and sustainable development.

During the event, OAGS President Rokhaya Samba Diene highlighted the organization's efforts to strengthen technical cooperation among its 38 member states. She noted the formation of a technical committee to develop collaborative programs and subcommittees focused on continental priorities, emphasizing that objective scientific knowledge is essential for shaping strategic decisions across Africa.

OAGS Secretary-General Mosa Mabuza underscored the growing geopolitical importance of geology and mineral security. He pointed out that Africa has historically underinvested in geological knowledge, which has limited the continent's ability to fully leverage its vast mineral wealth for development and policy-making.

The pending international certification of Uganda's laboratory is expected to significantly boost the country's attractiveness to mining investors. It will lower operational costs and strongly support the government's long-standing objective of promoting local value addition within the mining sector, keeping more of the economic benefits within the country.

Minister Nankabirwa reaffirmed the Ugandan government's commitment to developing modern mineral infrastructure and supporting regional cooperation through platforms like the OAGS. She stated that Uganda is ready to play its part in advancing Africa’s mining and geoscience agenda, asserting that every African country needs such a laboratory to ensure meaningful value addition.