Latest news with #EnergyandMineralDevelopment
Zawya
05-05-2025
- Health
- Zawya
Uganda: Tayebwa rallies support for new malaria vaccine
The Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Thomas Tayebwa, has called on leaders to embrace and support the use of the new malaria vaccine aimed at eliminating Uganda's leading cause of death and disease burden. The malaria vaccine launched in April 2025 is earmarked for 1.1 million children under two years, in 105 high and moderate malaria transmission districts. Tayebwa said such a preventive opportunity requires efforts of leaders at all levels to encourage parents and caretakers, to take children for vaccination at designated health facilities. 'Uganda is the 19th country to roll out the malaria vaccine and it has been the most effective country in terms of roll out. Although the vaccine is for children from one to two years, it is important that all of us participate. I encourage parents, leaders to go to your communities and mobilise mothers and fathers to bring their children for vaccination,' he said. Tayebwa was speaking during the 3rd Walk Against Malaria held at Parliament on Sunday, 04 May 2025. He said he was cognisant of efforts by researchers to introduce the vaccine for children above two years, a move that is envisaged to deliver Uganda to a malaria free generation. 'We know vaccination helped to deal with the six killer diseases; we no longer have cases of polio; if there are some, they are extremely isolated,' Tayebwa said. The Deputy Speaker was concerned with recent reports from Ministry of Health, indicating that the malaria disease burden is high among the school going children. He urged government to consider Indoor Residual Spraying for dormitories and classrooms which eliminates mosquitoes for several months. 'As government we must sit down and have a policy on spraying dormitories in boarding schools. When you look at the design of beds in boarding schools most are triple or double decker; it might be difficult to use a mosquito net on such beds,' said Tayebwa. The indoor residual spray, Tayebwa said, will cost each student Shs 5,000 which he said is worth the effort, considering the malaria disease burden and the resultant death. The Minister of State for Energy and Mineral Development (Minerals), Hon. Phiona Nyamutoro, who also joined the walk, recounted her earlier struggle with malaria saying it is a testament that malaria can be eliminated from Uganda. 'My first years of life were traumatic because my parents were always in and out of the hospital as I was always diagnosed with malaria. It has been years since I fell sick due to malaria and I believe it is something that can be achieved for everyone,' Nyamutoro said. Chinese Deputy Ambassador in Uganda, H.E Fan Xuecheng, recommitted China's support in malaria treatment and elimination praising his nation as a reliable partner in the fight. 'We are proud that China can be part of the process to free Uganda of malaria. Last year China provided 500,000 packs of anti-malaria drugs and will be Uganda's reliable partner in this fight,' Xuecheng said. The World Health Organisation (WHO) representative in Uganda, Dr. Kasonde Mwinga noted that whereas malaria burden remains unacceptably high in Uganda, all that is required for its elimination is in place. 'We have the tools, the knowledge, and the opportunity to achieve the malaria free-world. We must invest in proven interventions, reimagine strategies that overcome current challenges, reignite collective efforts to accelerate the desired progress,' said Kasonde. The Walk Against Malaria is an advocacy and awareness campaign led by the Parliamentary Forum on Malaria chaired by Hon. Timothy Batuwa (FDC, Jinja South Division West). The Forum works in partnership with UNICEF, WHO, Malaria Consortium, Pilgrim for Africa, Next Media, Malaria Free Uganda, embassies among others. The walk is aimed at mobilising domestic resources for malaria control and elimination, and raising awareness about malaria risks. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Parliament of the Republic of Uganda.
Zawya
30-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
African Mining Week 2025 to Feature Women in Leadership Forum
As women take on increasingly influential roles in shaping the future of Africa's mining sector, African Mining Week (AMW) 2025 – taking place from October 1–3 in Cape Town – will host a dedicated Women in Leadership Forum. This platform will bring together female leaders from across the mining value chain, connecting them with global investors, strategic partners and emerging project opportunities. Women are playing a pivotal role in transforming the continent's mining industry – championing policy reforms, driving investment, leading major companies,and advancing mineral diversification. Bogolo Kenewendo, Botswana's Minister of Mining, is spearheading structural reforms aimed at strengthening investor partnerships and expanding the country's diamond value chain. In February 2025, Botswana signed a landmark diamond sales agreement with De Beers, doubling its share of rough diamonds from the Debswana joint venture from 25% to 50% over the next decade. The agreement also extended Debswana's mining license by 25 years, reinforcing the continued contribution of diamonds to Botswana's economy, where the sector accounts for 80% of exports and 25% of GDP. In Uganda, Minister of Energy and Mineral Development, Ruth Nankabirwa, is driving strategic partnerships to revitalize the country's mineral sector. In March 2025, Uganda signed its first-ever Mineral Production Sharing Agreement for the redevelopment of the Kilembe copper mines with Sarrai Group Limited and Nile Fibreboard Limited. Uganda is also progressing toward its first commercial rare earth production at the Makuutu Project, developed in partnership with Ionic Rare Earths, with operations expected to begin in 2026. Malawi's Minister of Mining, Monica Chang'anamuno, is leading efforts to diversify the country's mineral portfolio and enhance sector governance. The World Bank estimates that Malawi could earn up to $30 billion in mineral revenues between 2026 and 2040, driven by uranium, graphite and rare earth developments. Lotus Resources is targeting initial uranium production at the Kayelekera Mine in Q3 2025. Additionally, Malawi established its first-ever Mining Regulatory Authority in late 2024 to streamline approvals and accelerate project development. Beyond the public sector, female executives are also steering the energy industry's evolution. Kelly Ayuk Mealia, Chairperson and Co-founder of Energy Capital&Power – the organizer of African Mining Week – is a vocal advocate for investment and project development across the continent. Marie-Chantal Kaninda, President of Glencore DRC, plays a strategic role in maintaining the DRC's global leadership in cobalt and copper. Nolitha Fakude, Chairperson of Anglo American South Africa, is a prominent voice on ESG and diversity, while Nombasa Tsengwa, CEO of Exxaro Resources, leads one of South Africa's top coal producers. Other notable women in leadership include Elizabeth Rogo, CEO of Tsavo Oilfield Services (Kenya); Naomi Biney, CEO of Goldridge Ghana Limited (Ghana); and Nneka Ezeigwe, CEO of Eta Zuma Mining and Industries (Nigeria). The Women in Leadership Forum at AMW 2025 will highlight how women are not only contributing to the industry – but actively redefining it for a more inclusive and sustainable future. African Mining Week serves as a premier platform for exploring the full spectrum of mining opportunities across Africa. The event is held alongside the African Energy Week: Invest in African Energies 2025 conference from October 1-3 in Cape Town. Sponsors, exhibitors and delegates can learn more by contacting sales@ Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital&Power.
The Star
24-04-2025
- Business
- The Star
'Calling South-East Asia, Uganda invites you': Thriving African nation showcases investment and trade potential at business expo in KL
KUALA LUMPUR: The 'Uganda the Pearl of Africa Business Forum and Expo 2025', held at the Renaissance Hotel in Kuala Lumpur, concluded on a high note, spotlighting Uganda's robust yet cautious economic growth across its most dynamic sectors. As one of the fastest-growing nations on the African continent, Uganda used this platform to present a compelling case for investment and collaboration—beginning with Malaysia. The inaugural two-day event drew participation from government officials, industry leaders, business chambers, and investors from both nations. It ended with a firm resolution to chart a stronger course for bilateral trade ties and sustainable economic partnerships between Malaysia and Uganda. Several key ministers were in Kuala Lumpur to reel in investment from Malaysia, offering opportunities for greater collaborations between the two countries. Uganda's Minister of Finance and Economic Development, Matia Kasaija was joined by a high-level ministerial delegation including Ruth Nankabirwa Ssentamu, Minister of Energy and Mineral Development; Frank Tumwebaze, Minister of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries; and Henry Oryem Okello, State Minister for Foreign Affairs (International Affairs). Malaysian Agriculture and Food Security Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu officiated a gala dinner held to celebrate the two countries' friendship and trade relationship. In his remarks during the forum's official dinner, Mohamad said: 'We are truly honoured to host this significant event—one that lays a solid foundation for deeper economic engagement, enriched people-to-people connections, and enduring collaboration. Let us go beyond the US$358.13 million in trade recorded last year and build on the strengths we share.' Uganda's Minister Kasaija summed up the forum's core message with a direct call to action: 'Come and see Uganda for yourself. Seeing is believing. Too often, Africa is painted with a broad brush. Uganda is a peaceful, vibrant, and fast-growing country. We are here to show you the truth,' said Kasaija. Earlier in the day, at the launching event, Malaysia was represented by Datuk Muhtar Hashim, Executive Director of the Chemical Industries Council of Malaysia, who reflected on the opportunities ahead: 'Uganda reminds us of Malaysia's own early industrial journey. There's a clear path—from raw resources to value-added industries. We see significant opportunities, particularly in renewable and sustainable sectors.' Uganda's High Commissioner to Malaysia Her Excellency Dr. Betty Oyella Bigombe, the main proponent of the event, said that Malaysia and Uganda can achieve much with the right framework and support from all stakeholders of common industries. The forum highlighted Uganda's diverse and fast-evolving sectors, ranging from agriculture and agro-processing to mining, manufacturing, and energy. All of these are underpinned by a commitment to long-term sustainability and regulation. Ruth Nankabirwa shared that oil drilling has commenced, with plans for refinery development and announcements of new exploration blocks expected soon. Uganda is also actively opening its energy sector to private sector participation, particularly in solar, geothermal, and nuclear energy. 'We are moving forward on the strength of a regulatory framework that is among the best in Africa,' she said. In the agro-sector, Uganda showcased high-potential commodities such as vanilla, coffee, cocoa, bananas, and even palm oil, positioning itself as a strong trade partner for Malaysia's own agribusiness networks. Datuk Irwin Cheong, Co-founder of the World-One Business Federation and the driving force behind the forum's organization, closed the dinner reception with a note of appreciation: 'This forum and expo is a celebration—not just of shared opportunity, but of shared purpose. We hope the conversations started here will continue, deepen, and take root in tangible collaboration.' The two-day event featured Government-to-Government (G2G) and Business-to-Business (B2B) sessions, with meetings with Deputy Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) Liew Chin Tong and the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA), as well as industry players from both nations. The forum also touched on logistical and connectivity enhancements, including planned direct flight routes and improved regional access. Another tantalising offer Uganda is offering the world is tourism and Ruth Nankabirwa promised nature lovers that vising their country is an experience no will ever forget and something to cherish all their life. Uganda are also famed for their amazing dedication in preserving their wildlife and in recent times, they have recorded ten fold growth in their efforts, including the big increase in the numbers of lions and rhinoceros once almost reaching extinction at one stage. "Come and see our country. Our economy is rising fast but at the same time we love our wildlife. They have always been our treasure. Tourists are bound to have an amazing and unforgetablleexperience when they visit out country. With strong political will, enthusiastic business participation, and a spirit of mutual respect and trust, the Uganda Pearl of Africa Business Forum and Expo 2025 has firmly established itself as a launchpad for deeper bilateral collaboration—and a fresh look at East Africa's emerging promise.
Barnama
23-04-2025
- Business
- Barnama
UGANDA SEEKS MALAYSIAN INVESTMENTS IN OIL, GAS AND MINERAL SECTORS
BUSINESS Uganda's Minister of Energy and Mineral Development, Ruth Nankabirwa Ssentamu, speaks at a press conference following the official opening of the Uganda Pearl of Africa Business Forum & Expo 2025, held at the Renaissance Hotel today. By Naveen Prabu Kuppusamy KUALA LUMPUR, April 23 (Bernama) -- Uganda is seeking Malaysian investments in its energy and mineral sectors, with key opportunities in oil refining, critical minerals, and clean energy infrastructure, said its Energy and Mineral Development Minister Ruth Nankabirwa. Nankabirwa said her country has vast resource potential and that her government is prepared to support foreign investors through a clear legal framework. "You will not be left to deal with landowners alone, as the state steps in — the minerals belong to the government, even if the land is privately owned," she said at the Uganda: The Pearl of Africa Business Forum and Expo 2025 here today. She said commercial oil was discovered in 2006, and two development areas are progressing well. "One area at Lake Albert is expected to generate 40,000 barrels of crude oil per day. The second, located towards Northern Uganda, Tilenga, is expected to produce 190,000 barrels per day," she said. She also pointed out the country's rare earth elements, gold, iron ore and copper reserves, adding that Ugandan law prohibits the export of raw minerals without local value addition. 'We don't allow minerals to be exported without value added. We want to industrialise at home. That's why we are inviting investors who are ready to process and partner with us locally,' she said. Nankabirwa noted that Malaysia's experience in palm oil, downstream industries, and solar energy has positioned it as a strategic partner.
Barnama
23-04-2025
- Business
- Barnama
Uganda Showcases Investment Potential At Business Forum & Expo
KUALA LUMPUR, April 23 -- In a bid to position itself as a strategic investment destination in East Africa, Uganda has rolled out the red carpet for Malaysian investors at the Pearl of Africa Business Forum and Expo 2025. Uganda's Minister of Energy and Mineral Development, Ruth Nankabirwa Ssentamu, said the nation is keen to leverage Malaysia's renowned expertise in mineral extraction, oil and gas development, and palm oil production. 'We are here with a delegation to secure opportunities to work together with the people of Malaysia. bootstrap slideshow 'We want to share what Uganda can offer in terms of natural resources, and we hope to build lasting partnerships in the energy and mineral sectors,' she said during a press conference on Wednesday. The two-day forum, which began on Wednesday, was officiated by Uganda's Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, Matia Kasaija. Also present were Nankabirwa and the Minister of State for Animal Industry, Lt. Col (Rtd) Bright Rwamirama. The ministers are also scheduled to hold bilateral discussions and meetings with local technocrats during the business forum. On tourism, Nankabirwa emphasised the importance of strengthening the sector and fostering people-to-people relations between Uganda and Malaysia. She encouraged Malaysians to discover Uganda as a vibrant and diverse travel destination, highlighting the country's rich cultural heritage, natural landscapes, and wildlife. Uganda's High Commissioner to Malaysia, Dr Betty Oyella Bigombe, highlighted that the forum is the first of its kind to be hosted in Malaysia by an East African country, reflecting Uganda's commitment to deepening economic partnerships across Asia.
