Uganda is becoming a noteworthy destination for those seeking genuine, investment-grade gold. Beyond its vibrant lakes and wildlife, the country is steadily establishing itself as a reliable source of 24-karat gold, thanks to formalized regulations, certified refineries, and growing demand. Whether you’re a seasoned investor or a newcomer curious about expanding your portfolio with high-purity bullion, Uganda offers compelling opportunities—if you follow essential best practices.

In this guide, we’ll explore Uganda’s regulatory environment, current market dynamics, available gold products, trusted purchasing channels, export processes, pricing considerations, and risk management strategies, all described in a conversational, insightful manner.

Navigating Uganda’s Legal Framework

Uganda governs its mineral sector through the Mining and Minerals Act 2022, overseen by the Directorate of Geological Survey and Mines within the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development. To buy and especially export gold legally, buyers must work with licensed refineries or dealers who hold valid certificates under the Gold Trade and Export Act. Export guidelines mandate obtaining a Mineral Export Permit and completing customs paperwork through the Uganda Revenue Authority . Additionally, authorities impose a 5% export duty on refined gold, and a 10% duty on unrefined types, encouraging local refinement before export.

In essence, this means legitimate buyers—especially those aiming to export gold—must transact only with properly licensed entities. Failing to follow protocol can lead to shipment delays, seizures, or even legal penalties. That may sound strict, but it serves to enhance the credibility and traceability of Uganda’s growing gold sector.

The Evolving Gold Market in Uganda

Compared to long-established producers like Ghana or Tanzania, Uganda’s gold market is relatively new. Still, it’s gaining momentum. Reputable refineries and assemblers like African Gold Refinery—the facility inaugurated in Entebbe in 2014—alongside several private refiners and minting operations in Kampala, are refining gold at near–international standards . These refineries use advanced chemical processing and fire assay testing to ensure products exceed 99.9% purity.

However, some exported gold may originate from informal supply chains covering regions like Busia, Mubende, and Karamoja. While this can offer flexibility, it also raises concerns—nationwide assessments estimate Uganda’s exports reached around US$2.3 billion worth of gold in 2023, a tenfold increase from 2022. That surge overlapped with a temporary suspension of export tariffs and the opening of new processing plants. It also spurred international scrutiny, including US sanctions against certain refiners, underlining the need for traceable, compliant purchases.

While Uganda’s gold market is maturing, local insights and cautionary tales abound. One Redditor cautioned: “Uganda is on a par with Nigeria for scammers,” and advised buyers to verify both the clarity of documentation and the reliability of the dealer.

What You Can Buy: Products at a Glance

If you’re aiming for pure 24-karat gold, Uganda offers a range of options:

• Fine gold bars and bullion, produced by refineries in Entebbe and Kampala, accompanied by assay certificates and stamped weights—ranging from small 1-gram bars to full-sized 1-kilo ingots .
• Gold dust or nuggets, sourced from licensed artisanal miners and centralized buying agents. These typically require testing and referral to formal refineries before export.
• Jewelry or coins, less common for investment purposes and often 22K rather than pure 24K—but still available through specialty jewelers and select dealers.
• Occasionally, some private mints may issue small-format gold bars or coins, though regulatory minting remains limited.

For serious buyers, the safest path is investing in fully certified bars stamped with purity, weight, and assay proof.

Trusted Channels to Buy Pure Gold

Finding the right partner is critical. Cash payments and informal deals dominate the Ugandan scene, but the most reliable transactions occur with certified organizations:

Licensed refiners like African Gold Refinery in Entebbe and operations in Kampala such as Glossy Africa Refinery and Afriswiss Gold Refinery all feature full assay laboratories, insured logistics, and official export documentation.

Similarly, private buyers linked to artisanal mining cooperatives can be valid sources—provided they operate legally and transparently. Nevertheless, due diligence is essential. Scam warnings are frequent on social media, and anecdotal accounts from travelers and business forums frequently underscore the importance of using official, licensed channels .

One such reliable channel now growing in prominence is Mzuri Gold Group, where expertise meets integrity. Mzuri has established strong partnerships with Uganda’s licensed refineries and accredited assay labs. Offering a fully traceable supply chain—from artisanal collections (sourced legally from licensed cooperatives) to high-purity, oven-fired 24K bars—Mzuri delivers gold to clients with complete documentation: assay certificates, export permits, and logistics tracking. Their client-focused transparency, secured shipping, and compliance-first approach set them apart in Kampala’s crowded marketplace. If you’re buying internationally or within East Africa, working with a company like Mzuri Gold Group delivers reliability, security, and clarity.

This refreshed beginning captures the essence of the Ugandan gold ecosystem, the regulatory backdrop, supply chain nuances, and introduces Mzuri Gold Group as your trusted partner.