On January 27, 2023, of Ugandan time, 3 leaders from the MoFPED and URA (Mr Samuel Kiyingi- Principal Economist, Bridget Nimungu- Economist, Jude Ochieng - Supervisor URA) visited Wagagai’s gold mine in Busia. Mr. Tan, the General Manager and the team from Wagagi extended a warm welcome to the guests.

At around 14:30, the guests reached the VIP reception room in Busia where Mr. Tan presented the promotional video and the gold mine’s construction progress report to the guests. Mr. Tan also introduced to the guests of the mining equipment and technological process. By comparing the advanced mining technologies with the current mining situation in Uganda, Wagagai showed its believe in building itself into a mining benchmark in east African countries, and its strength in driving local mining industry leaping forward.

After lunch, Mr. Tan and his team gave a site tour to the guests. They visited the drilling site, the main shaft zone 2, core store, laboratory, No.2 warehouse, wagagai’s private bonded warehouse, ramp road zone 1, and the office area.

During the tour, the guests noted that Wagagai was still using the simple office furniture bought locally and the High-end furniture imported from China were still under the hold of the customs. Leaders from the MoFPED and URA indicated understanding on the issue and expressed the willingness to assist.

After the tour, teams from both sides had a meeting. The 3 leaders from Ecomomic Affairs Department of the MoFPED and URA had a clear image of the investment scale of Wagagai through the on-site inspection, and they had seen that all imported office furniture was in the urgent need. Mr. Tan, during the meeting, presented the idea of applying the exemption for the whole project in Busia, which, if being granted, can help Wagagai to make full use of the ores mined and avoid wasting recourses. The leaders explained to Wagagai the procedures and documents may be required for the project exemption application. They also expressed that they would try to provide the preferential policies and grant the according support. They Lastly wished Wagagai could start the production as soon as possible.

A group photo.