Summary:

• Uganda is preparing to launch its first tin refining plant, aiming to enhance domestic mineral processing capabilities and boost export benefits.

Uganda is gearing up to unveil its inaugural tin refining facility in the southwestern region next month, marking a milestone in its efforts to bolster mineral processing capabilities domestically.

President Yoweri Museveni’s initiative aims to enhance the benefits of mineral exports within the East African nation, complementing existing gold refineries. Recently licensed operations, such as the Chinese-backed Sunbird Resources, further underscore Uganda’s commitment to resource development, with plans for limestone extraction to support cement production.

Irene Bateebe, a prominent figure within the energy and mineral development ministry, confirmed the imminent launch of the tin processing facility during a recent announcement. Woodcross Resources, a local mining and mineral trading entity, is spearheading this endeavor.

Bateebe emphasized the facility’s focus on achieving purity levels exceeding 99%, though specific investment figures remain undisclosed at this time. Woodcross, the proprietor of the plant, is yet to provide commentary on the matter, despite requests for clarification.

According to information available on Woodcross’s website, the company holds a tin mining license encompassing 40 square kilometers in western Uganda. The planned tin refining plant boasts an annual capacity exceeding 1,000 tonnes, reflecting Uganda’s strides towards self-sufficiency in mineral processing.