Monica Musenero, the Minister of Energy and Mineral Development, on Friday 25 September announced the exit of James Mukasa Ssebugenyi, chairperson of the Uganda National Mining Company (UNMC), and his deputy, James Byagaba.

In a brief statement, Ms Musenero said Mr Ssebugenyi, who was first appointed in April 2024, had resigned, while Mr Byagaba’s appointment had been terminated, as part of “measures to address governance and management challenges affecting the company.”

The changes came hours after Uganda Business News reported on tensions between the nine-member board led by Mr Ssebugenyi and the company’s management under Gerald Banaga-Baingi, the chief executive, and on a governance audit ordered by the Finance ministry.

“In her capacity as acting chairperson, Hon. Kiwanuka has been tasked with providing effective leadership to the board, strengthening corporate governance and restoring institutional stability. She will also lead the implementation of a governance and management recovery programme focused on board effectiveness and performance management,” the statement reads in part.

Ms Musenero said her ministry is committed to ensuring that the company operates with the highest standards of accountability, professionalism and good corporate governance.

“The current measures are intended to strengthen the Company’s governance framework and ensure that UNMC effectively fulfils its mandate in the national interest,” the statement said.