By BigEyeUg Team
Hon. Phiona Nyamutoro, the Minister of State for Energy and Mineral Development (Minerals), narrowly escaped harm after being shot at by private security guards of the National Cement Company.
The incident occurred in Kisoro District, where the company, a subsidiary of Devki Group, has been accused of conducting illegal mining activities.
Hon. Nyamutoro was appointed to her current cabinet position earlier this year by President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni. Since her appointment, she has been dedicated to advancing the energy and mineral sector, demonstrating remarkable commitment and effectiveness in her role.
The confrontation took place as Hon. Nyamutoro was investigating reports of illegal mining operations by the National Cement Company. The private security guards, in an attempt to deter her from entering the site, opened fire. Fortunately, the minister was unharmed in the incident.
This alarming event has raised serious concerns about the illegal mining activities in the region and the aggressive measures employed by those involved to protect their operations. The government has vowed to take stringent action against those responsible for the attack and to ensure that illegal mining activities are halted.
Hon. Nyamutoro’s survival of this attack underscores the challenges faced by government officials in their efforts to regulate and develop Uganda’s energy and mineral sectors. Her continued commitment to her duties, despite such dangers, is a testament to her dedication to the country’s progress and development.
The incident is currently under investigation, and the authorities are working to bring the perpetrators to justice.
We will keep you posted