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HOW TO OBTAIN A MINING LICENSE IN UGANDA

Published

11 months ago

March 2, 2025

To engage in mining activities beyond buying and selling minerals, one must acquire the appropriate mineral rights under the Mining and Minerals Act, 2022. These include:

Artisanal Mining License: For small-scale, manual mining activities.

Small-Scale Mining License: For mining operations with moderate investment.

Medium-Scale Mining License: For mining operations with significant investment but below large-scale thresholds.

Large-Scale Mining License: For major commercial mining operations.

Exploration License: For systematic mineral exploration.

Retention License: For holding a deposit with economic potential.

Mining Lease: For fully developed mining projects.

Mineral Dealer’s License: For buying, selling, and dealing in minerals.

PROSPECTING LICENSE

A Prospecting License is required before applying for an Exploration License. It is granted for one year and is non-renewable.

Requirements:

Individual applicants (Ugandan citizens only): Valid identification (Passport, Voter’s Card, Driving Permit, etc.) Executed Form I Payment of UGX 200,000 statutory fees

Company/Association: Certified copy of incorporation/registration, Certified copy of Articles and Memorandum of Association, Authority letter, Executed Form I Payment of UGX 800,000 statutory fees

EXPLORATION LICENSE

Granted for up to four (4) years, renewable once for up to three (3) years.

Requirements:

Valid Prospecting License
Submission of Prospecting License returns
Map of the desired area (1:50,000 scale)
Work program for exploration
Project brief
Executed Form II
Proof of financial capability

Fees:

UGX 2,000,000 application fee
UGX 75,000 per km² as annual mineral rent
UGX 345,000 for gazetting the grant

RETENTION LICENSE

Granted for up to three (3) years, renewable once for up to two (2) years.

Requirements:

Valid Exploration License
Board resolution of the company authorizing the application for a retention license
Feasibility study conducted by an accredited consultant
Other necessary information requested by the Minister

Fees:

UGX 7,000,000 application fee
UGX 200,000 per km² as annual mineral rent
UGX 345,000 for gazetting the grant

MINING LICENSES

Mining Licenses are categorized based on investment scale and operations.

Purpose

The Artisanal Mining Licence (AML) is issued to Ugandan nationals who wish to engage in small-scale, low-tech, manual mining operations. This licence is intended to regulate traditional, subsistence-based mining and ensure environmental and social compliance.

Validity

The AML is valid for up to 3 years and can be renewed for 2 years.
Exclusively reserved for Ugandan citizens (foreigners cannot apply).

Key Requirements

Proof of Ugandan citizenship
Completed Artisanal Mining Licence (AML) Application Form
Proof of mineral occurrence in the targeted mining area
Proof of technical competence (basic mining knowledge or training)
A statement of mining operations and planned capital expenditure
Provisional agreement with the landowner (for mining on private land)
Proposed production schedule and marketing plan for selling mined minerals
Environmental compliance measures (basic environmental protection steps)

Statutory Fees (UGX)

Application Fee: UGX 1,000,000
Registration Fee: UGX 1,000,000
Annual Mineral Rent: UGX 1,500,000
Renewal Application Fee: UGX 2,000,000
Gazette Grant Fee: UGX 345,000

Application Process

Register on the Mining Cadastre & Registry System (MCRS).
Download and complete the AML application form.
Submit the form online with all required supporting documents.
Pay the application fee (UGX 1,000,000).
MEMD (Ministry of Energy & Mineral Development) reviews the application.
If approved, pay the licence and mineral rent fees.
Receive your Artisanal Mining Licence (AML), valid for 3 years.

Additionally

Exclusively for Ugandan nationals – foreigners must apply for a Small or Medium Scale Mining Licence.
Intended for small-scale, manual mining operations (no heavy machinery).
If mining on private land, written consent from the landowner is required.
AML holders must comply with basic environmental and safety regulations.

Small-Scale Mining License

Small-Scale Mining License Granted for up to five (5) years and renewable for up to three (3) years.

Purpose

The Small-Scale Mining Licence (SML) is issued to Ugandan nationals or registered companies intending to carry out mining operations in an area not exceeding 10 km². It is exclusively reserved for Ugandans and is meant for mining projects that require moderate investment and equipment.

Validity

The SML is valid for up to 5 years.
It can be renewed for 3 years at a time.

Key Requirements

Valid Prospecting License, Exploration License, or Retention License
Work program for mining operations
Executed Form IV
Proof of mineral occurrence in the targeted mining area
Proof of technical competence (CVs and academic qualifications)
A statement outlining mining operations and planned capital expenditure
Provisional agreement with the landowner (if the land is privately owned)
Proposed value addition program (optional)
Proposed marketing plan for the sale of mineral production
Environmental protection plan (basic waste management & site restoration plan)
Financial capability statement (proof of investment capacity)

Statutory Fees (UGX)

New Application / Renewal Fee: UGX 10,000,000
Registration Fee: UGX 1,000,000
Annual Mineral Rent: UGX 100,000 per hectare
Gazette Grant Fee: UGX 345,000

Application Process

Register on the Mining Cadastre & Registry System (MCRS).
Download and complete the SML application form.
Submit the form online with all required supporting documents.
Pay the application fee (UGX 10,000,000).
MEMD (Ministry of Energy & Mineral Development) reviews the application.
If approved, pay the licence and mineral rent fees.
Receive your Small Scale Mining Licence (SML), valid for 5 years.

Additional Notes

Exclusively for Ugandans – foreign investors must apply for a Medium or Large Scale Mining Licence.
Mining area must not exceed 10 km².
Allows the use of small-scale machinery but prohibits large industrial operations.
Holders must comply with environmental regulations and community engagement rules.

Medium-Scale Mining Licence (MML) – Uganda (2024)

Medium-Scale Mining License Granted for up to ten (10) years or the life of the ore body, renewable for up to seven (7) years.

Purpose

The Medium-Scale Mining Licence (MML) is granted to companies or individuals intending to conduct mining operations on a medium scale, covering an area not exceeding 50 km². This licence is meant for mining projects that require moderate to large investments in machinery, labor, and processing facilities.

Validity

The MML is valid for up to 10 years.
It can be renewed for 7 years at a time.

Key Requirements

A joint venture partnership registered in accordance with the Partnership Act 2010 comprising of Uganda citizens and foreigners
Company registered and incorporated under the companies act, 2012
Valid Prospecting License, Exploration License, or Retention License
Submission of required reports
Executed Form II
Completed Medium-Scale Mining Licence (MML) Application Form
Mine plan (including break-even analysis, production capacity, mineral recovery, environmental rehabilitation, and restoration plans)
Proof of technical competence (CVs and academic qualifications of the technical team)
Written proof of surface rights acquisition (landowner agreements or compensation plan)
Detailed report on mineral resources (proving the economic feasibility of the mining project)
Proposed value addition program (if applicable)
Marketing and sales strategy for the minerals produced
Environmental and social impact assessment (ESIA) in line with the National Environment Act, 2019
Business plan (capital investment forecast, operational costs, revenue projections)
Proof of financial capability to sustain the mining project
Statement on employment and training of Ugandan workers

Statutory Fees (UGX)

New Application / Renewal Fee: UGX 15,000,000
Registration Fee: UGX 1,000,000
Annual Mineral Rent: UGX 120,000 per hectare
Gazette Grant Fee: UGX 345,000

Application Process

Register on the Mining Cadastre & Registry System (MCRS).
Download and complete the MML application form.
Submit the form online with all required supporting documents.
Pay the application fee (UGX 15,000,000).
MEMD (Ministry of Energy & Mineral Development) reviews the application.
If approved, pay the licence and mineral rent fees.
Receive your Medium-Scale Mining Licence (MML), valid for 10 years.

Additionally

Mining area must not exceed 50 km².
Requires significant investment in infrastructure and mining equipment.
Mining activities must comply with environmental, health, and safety regulations.
Holders must submit annual mining and environmental compliance reports.

Large-Scale Mining Licence (LML) – Uganda (2024)

Large-Scale Mining License Granted for up to twenty-one (21) years or the life of the ore body, renewable for up to fifteen (15) years.

Purpose

The Large-Scale Mining Licence (LML) is issued to companies intending to conduct large-scale mining operations in Uganda. It allows for the extraction of minerals in areas not exceeding 50 km², requiring a capital investment of at least 388 billion UGX (19,410,000 currency points, where 1 cp = UGX 20,000).

Validity

The LML is valid for up to 21 years.
It can be renewed for 15 years at a time.

Key Requirements

Valid Prospecting License, Exploration License, or Retention License
Proof of payment of taxes and fees due
Certificate of Incorporation and Memorandum of Understanding
Board resolution
Names and Nationalities of the Director and the names of every shareholder who is the beneficial owner of five percent or more of the issued share capital
Company Profile And history of mining operations in Uganda (Where applicable)
Name and qualifications of the person responsible for supervising the proposed programme of mining operations
Submission of required reports
Executed Form II
Proof of financial capability
Community Development Agreement with affected local communities
Detailed feasibility study and assessment conducted by a certified expert or accredited consultant
Detailed report on mineral resources proving economic viability
Mine plan (break-even analysis, production capacity, mineral recovery rates, environmental rehabilitation, and restitution plan for land rights upon expiry or termination)
Proof of technical competence (CVs and academic qualifications of key personnel)
Business plan (capital investment, operating costs, revenue forecasts)
Proof of surface rights acquisition (agreements with landowners or compensation plan)
Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) in accordance with the National Environment Act, 2019
Plan for coexistence with local communities and landowners, including proof of consultations and compensation measures
Statement on employment and training of Ugandan workers
Statement on procurement plans for goods and services from Uganda
Proposed marketing and sales strategy for the minerals to be extracted
Details of insurance coverage, including health and worker compensation for employees

Statutory Fees (UGX)

New Application / Renewal Fee: UGX 20,000,000
Registration Fee: UGX 1,000,000
Annual Mineral Rent: UGX 150,000 per hectare
Gazette Grant Fee: UGX 345,000

5. Application Process

Register on the Mining Cadastre & Registry System (MCRS).
Download and complete the LML application form.
Submit the form online with all required supporting documents.
Pay the application fee (UGX 20,000,000).
MEMD (Ministry of Energy & Mineral Development) reviews the application.
If approved, pay the licence and mineral rent fees.
Receive your Large-Scale Mining Licence (LML), valid for 21 years.

Additionally

Mining area must not exceed 50 km².
LML requires significant infrastructure and machinery investment.
Mining operations must follow strict environmental, safety, and community engagement laws.
Annual environmental and mining compliance reports must be submitted.
Holders must create employment opportunities for Ugandan citizens and promote local procurement of goods/services.

Mineral Processing Licence (MPL) – Uganda (2024)

Purpose

The Mineral Processing Licence (MPL) is issued to individuals or companies that intend to process raw minerals through methods such as crushing, grinding, leaching, and separation to increase the mineral concentration before sale or export.

Validity

The MPL is valid for up to 5 years.
It can be renewed for 3 years at a time.

Key Requirements

Completed Mineral Processing Licence (MPL) Application Form
Plan and layout of the mineral processing facility
Proof of appropriate technology for processing minerals
Proof of technical competence (CVs and academic documents)
Statement of the applicant’s knowledge and experience in mineral processing
Environmental and waste management plans in accordance with the National Environment Act, 2019
Written proof of surface rights (land acquisition, compensation, relocation, and resettlement plan if applicable)
Tax clearance from the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA)

Statutory Fees (UGX)

Application Fee: UGX 500,000
Registration Fee: UGX 1,000,000
Licence Fee: UGX 5,000,000
Annual Mineral Rent: UGX 1,000,000
Renewal Application Fee: UGX 500,000
Gazette Grant Fee: UGX 345,000

Application Process

Register on the Mining Cadastre & Registry System (MCRS).
Download and complete the MPL application form.
Submit the form online with all required supporting documents.
Pay the application fee (UGX 500,000).
MEMD (Ministry of Energy & Mineral Development) reviews the application.
If approved, pay the licence and mineral rent fees.
Receive your Mineral Processing Licence (MPL), valid for 5 years.

Additionally

MPL is required for processing minerals but does not cover mining operations (a separate mining licence is needed).
All processing facilities must comply with environmental and waste management laws.
Processing plants must have adequate safety and pollution control measures.
Holders must submit periodic reports on mineral processing activities and environmental compliance.

Mineral Smelting Licence (MSL) – Uganda (2024)

Purpose

The Mineral Smelting Licence (MSL) is issued to individuals or companies that intend to extract metals from their ores using smelting technology, which involves heating and melting to separate valuable metals from waste material.

Validity

The MSL is valid for up to 15 years.
It can be renewed for 10 years at a time.

Key Requirements

Completed Mineral Smelting Licence (MSL) Application Form
Plan and layout of the smelting facility
Proof of appropriate smelting technology
Proof of technical competence (CVs and academic documents)
Statement of the applicant’s knowledge and experience in mineral smelting
Environmental and waste management plans in compliance with the National Environment Act, 2019
Written proof of surface rights (including compensation, relocation, and resettlement plan, where applicable)
Tax clearance from the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA)

4. Statutory Fees (UGX)

Application Fee: UGX 500,000
Registration Fee: UGX 1,000,000
Licence Fee: UGX 10,000,000
Annual Mineral Rent: UGX 5,000,000
Renewal Application Fee: UGX 1,000,000
Gazette Grant Fee: UGX 345,000

Application Process

Register on the Mining Cadastre & Registry System (MCRS).
Download and complete the MSL application form.
Submit the form online with all required supporting documents.
Pay the application fee (UGX 500,000).
MEMD (Ministry of Energy & Mineral Development) reviews the application.
If approved, pay the licence and mineral rent fees.
Receive your Mineral Smelting Licence (MSL), valid for 15 years.

Additionally

MSL is required for smelting but does not cover mining operations (a separate mining licence is needed).
Smelting facilities must comply with strict environmental and pollution control regulations.
Holders must submit periodic reports on smelting activities, environmental impact, and safety compliance.
The licence can be renewed for an additional 10 years upon satisfactory compliance with regulations.

Mineral Refining Licence (MRL) – Uganda (2024)

Purpose

The Mineral Refining Licence (MRL) is issued to individuals or companies that intend to purify minerals or process mineral products to obtain refined metals or mineral compounds. This includes operations such as gold refining, copper refining, and other metallurgical processes that remove impurities and increase the mineral’s purity and market value.

Validity

The MRL is valid for up to 15 years.
It can be renewed for 10 years at a time.

Key Requirements

Completed Mineral Refining Licence (MRL) Application Form
Plan and layout of the refining facility
Proof of appropriate refining technology
Proof of technical competence (CVs and academic documents)
Statement of the applicant’s knowledge and experience in mineral refining
Environmental and waste management plans in compliance with the National Environment Act, 2019
Written proof of surface rights (including compensation, relocation, and resettlement plan, if applicable)
Tax clearance from the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA)

4. Statutory Fees (UGX)

Application Fee: UGX 1,000,000
Registration Fee: UGX 1,000,000
Licence Fee: UGX 10,000,000
Annual Mineral Rent: UGX 10,000,000
Renewal Application Fee: UGX 1,500,000
Gazette Grant Fee: UGX 345,000

5. Application Process

Register on the Mining Cadastre & Registry System (MCRS).
Download and complete the MRL application form.
Submit the form online with all required supporting documents.
Pay the application fee (UGX 1,000,000).
MEMD (Ministry of Energy & Mineral Development) reviews the application.
If approved, pay the licence and mineral rent fees.
Receive your Mineral Refining Licence (MRL), valid for 15 years.

Additionally

MRL is required for refining but does not cover mining or smelting operations (separate licences are needed).
Refining facilities must comply with strict environmental and pollution control
Holders must submit periodic reports on refining activities, environmental impact, and safety compliance.
The licence can be renewed for an additional 10 years upon satisfactory compliance with regulations.

Export & Import Permits for Minerals – Uganda (2024)

Uganda regulates mineral trade through export and import permits, ensuring compliance with mineral laws, tax regulations, and environmental standards. These permits are issued per consignment and are required for anyone transporting minerals in or out of Uganda.

EXPORT PERMIT

Purpose: Authorizes the export of minerals from Uganda.
Validity: Issued per consignment (valid only for the shipment covered).

Requirements for Export Permit

Valid Mineral Dealers Licence (MDL) or Mineral Right
Completed Form 52 (as per the Mining and Minerals (Licensing) Regulations, 2023)
Export permit or related documents from the country of origin (if minerals are not from Uganda)
Proof of payment of royalty fees (for minerals where applicable)
Declaration of mineral type, quantity, value, and country of destination

Statutory Fees (UGX) for Export Permit

Licence Fee: UGX 700,000 per consignment

Application Process for Export Permit

Register on the Mining Cadastre & Registry System (MCRS).
Fill out and submit Form 52 online with all required supporting documents.
Pay the export permit fee (UGX 700,000 per consignment).
MEMD (Ministry of Energy & Mineral Development) reviews the application.
If approved, receive the Export Permit.
Proceed with customs clearance and shipping.

IMPORT PERMIT

Purpose: Authorizes the import of minerals into Uganda.
Validity: Issued per consignment (valid only for the shipment covered).

Requirements for Import Permit

Valid Mineral Dealers Licence (MDL) for the specific minerals being imported
Completed Form 54 (as per the Mining and Minerals (Licensing) Regulations, 2023)
Export permit from the originating country
Pre-shipment documents (certificate of origin, invoice, packing list, etc.)

Statutory Fees (UGX) for Import Permit

Application Fee: UGX 1,000,000 per consignment

Permit Fees:

1% of the prevailing price on the London Metal Exchange (LME) for precious metals, precious stones, and base metals.
- UGX 4,000 per tonne for industrial minerals.
- UGX 2,000 per tonne for clinker or semi-processed industrial minerals.

Application Process for Import Permit

Register on the Mining Cadastre & Registry System (MCRS).
Fill out and submit Form 54 online with all required supporting documents.
Pay the import permit application fee (UGX 1,000,000) and any applicable permit fees.
MEMD (Ministry of Energy & Mineral Development) reviews the application.
If approved, receive the Import Permit.
Proceed with customs clearance and transportation of minerals into Uganda.

Additionally

Permits are issued per consignment – a new application is required for each shipment.
Failure to obtain a permit before exporting or importing minerals is illegal and can lead to penalties or confiscation.
Royalties must be paid before export, where applicable.
Both permits require a valid Mineral Dealers Licence (MDL) or a relevant mineral right.

Entertainment

From Long-Distance Promises to No-Games Allowed: Okot Mark’s Powerful Double Release in January 2026

These releases build on a strong 2025 run where Okot Mark consistently delivered fresh music.

Published

13 hours ago

January 31, 2026

lumologroup

Okot Mark, the dynamic Ugandan artist widely recognized as Rey Macc, is starting 2026 on a high note with two powerful new Afrobeat singles that highlight his growth as a singer, songwriter, and self-taught producer. Released under his real name, “Remember” dropped on January 23, 2026, followed closely by “Games” on January 30, 2026. Both tracks are distributed by Trend Setters Digital, the label arm tied to his co-founded initiative Trend Setters Uganda. These releases build on a strong 2025 run where Okot Mark consistently delivered fresh music. Fans enjoyed romantic and confident cuts like “Select You” (a soulful highlight under Okot Mark & Rey Macc), “Better Than You”, “Aisha”, “An Amari”, “I Think You Want To Be Alone Tonight”, “Low Key”, “Come Over”, “Transition”, “Love On Me”, “What A Girl”, and others that blended Afrobeat rhythms with R&B influences, Afro-dancehall vibes, and party energy.

Now, with these January 2026 drops, Okot Mark shows even more range: one deeply emotional and patient, the other fiercely protective and direct. “Remember”: The Heartfelt Long-Distance Love Letter. “Remember” is a tender Afrobeat ballad that pours out the raw feelings of loving someone across distance. Written entirely by Okot Mark, it captures the everyday ache of separation, the sacrifices required for love, and the unwavering commitment to wait.From the opening:

Trendsetters
Mans like Rey
I will be honest
I can’t imagine
Waking up to an empty bed
Cause you ain’t with me
I don’t like it
But sacrifices
For the ones you love

The chorus turns into a vulnerable, repeated plea:

I want you to promise me
That you’ll remember me
Cause I will remember you
And I will wait for you
My love

He gets even more personal, sharing dreams put on hold:

My baby baby
I’ll be honest
I thought this was the perfect time to start a family
I love children
And I want them with you
Even though I hate the timing
I will wait for you

The smooth, melodic production lets the emotions shine through warm Afrobeat grooves. If you’ve vibed with his softer, love-focused tracks like “Love On Me”, “Aisha”, or “Low Key” from last year, “Remember” feels like a natural, deeper extension; perfect for dedicated playlists or quiet moments missing someone special. Stream or download “Remember” today: https://ffm.to/okotmarkremember

“Games”: No More Playing Around – Boundaries Set. Just seven days later, “Games” brings the energy shift. This assertive Afrobeat track is all about self-respect, spotting manipulation early, and refusing to let anyone get the upper hand. The infectious hook and chants lock you in right away:

Do
Do do do do do
Do do do
I know what you’re doing
Don’t play those games on me
Don’t play those games on me
Yeah yeah yeah yeah

He issues clear warnings:

Be careful
Be careful with me
Am not that guy
But I can turn the switch on

The verses cut straight:

Who are you to tell me what’s good for me
Looking at you, you’re just a nobody
Putting your feet where it doesn’t belong

And that standout vocal moment from the Ugandan Ex-MP Hon. Segona drives home confidence and qualification:

Look around
look at other people
Look at me
look at my CV
Why do you have to deceive yourself?
Scoring
Is there somebody
vying for this position
As qualified as myself
I have presented my CV
I have presented my ideas
And everybody would agree

With bouncy rhythms, catchy “Do do do” elements, and an unapologetic attitude, “Games” echoes the bolder side of his catalog—like “Better Than You” or confident flexes in other 2025 releases. It’s empowering music for anyone done tolerating nonsense. Stream or download “Games” today: https://ffm.to/okotmarkgames

Why These Releases Matter in Okot Mark’s Journey: Dropping two strong singles back-to-back shows Okot Mark’s versatility and work ethic. From heartfelt dedications to boundary-setting anthems, he’s telling real stories rooted in personal experience while keeping the Afrobeat production fresh and danceable. As a multi-genre creator (blending Afrobeat, R&B, Afro-dancehall, and more), founder of Trend Setters, and active voice in digital spaces, he’s carving out space in East Africa’s music landscape. 2026 is young, but these tracks already signal momentum. Whether you’re into the emotional pull of “Remember” or the no-games energy of “Games,” add them to your rotation, share with friends, and support independent Ugandan talent. Head to the links, stream on repeat, and keep an eye on Okot Mark, he’s got more rhythm and realness coming. What’s hitting hardest for you right now?

Health

Doomscrolling Should Be Considered a Mental Disorder: Lessons from Uganda’s 2026 Elections

Published

2 days ago

January 30, 2026

Mark Okot

Pixabay/ VinzentWeinbeer

In the lead-up to and aftermath of Uganda’s January 15, 2026, general elections, social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, TikTok, and others turned into battlegrounds of intense negativity. Phrases such as “Protect the gains,” “Uganda is Bleeding,” “New Uganda,” and dire warnings of impending collapse dominated feeds. Videos showed opposition leaders like Robert Kyagulanyi (Bobi Wine) confronting police, claims of uncontrollable bloodshed, election malpractices, and predictions that the country stood on the brink unless specific leaders took power. Allegedly paid activists, bots, and fervent supporters from both opposition and ruling party sides amplified these narratives, pushing endless streams of alarming content. Scrolling through it all became addictive; each refresh delivered more outrage, fear, or confirmation of bias leaving many Ugandans angry, exhausted, and emotionally drained.

If you found yourself wrapped up in this cycle, reacting impulsively with heated comments, staying up late to “stay informed,” or feeling constant tension regardless of your political side, you were likely doomscrolling. This behavior, far from harmless, exhibits the traits of a compulsive disorder and should be recognized as a form of mental illness.

Doomscrolling is the compulsive habit of endlessly scrolling through feeds saturated with crises, disasters, political outrage, violence, and apocalyptic predictions. What starts as a genuine effort to follow important events spirals into hours of consumption that heightens anxiety, hopelessness, and fatigue. In Uganda’s recent electoral context, the algorithmic push toward emotionally charged content like videos of confrontations, inflammatory claims, and polarized debates made it especially potent. Platforms reward high-engagement negativity, so feeds flooded with stories of “bloodshed,” rigged processes, or national collapse kept users hooked.

The compulsion is evident in the loss of control many experience. People know the content is harmful yet promise themselves “just one more post” before continuing far longer. This mirrors addiction patterns: each alarming update triggers a dopamine hit from novelty or perceived threat awareness, an ancient survival instinct distorted by infinite digital feeds. Tolerance develops quickly, more extreme content is needed for the same “informed” feeling while stopping brings restlessness or fear of missing critical updates.

Psychological research from recent years, including studies in journals like Computers in Human Behavior, links doomscrolling to serious mental health impacts stating that “Media and media content overload can serve as a conduit for mental health problems, such as anxiety and depression”. “The media facilitates accessibility to specific thoughts and triggers relevant reactions. For example, exposure to violent media has been shown to implant aggressive thoughts and increase antagonism”.

It heightens psychological distress through poor emotional regulation and problematic social media use. In adults and youth alike, prolonged exposure predicts rises in anxiety, depression, chronic stress, and existential despair; feelings of meaninglessness, deep distrust in others (including fellow citizens), and a bleak worldview. During Uganda’s election period, this manifested as constant anger, sleep disruption from late-night scrolling, elevated cortisol levels, and physical effects like fatigue or high blood pressure. For those with preexisting vulnerabilities, the habit created vicious cycles: negative posts reinforced biased perceptions, fueling more scrolling and deeper emotional lows.

Experts increasingly frame doomscrolling in addiction-like terms, driven by platform designs such as infinite scrolling, notifications, and algorithms that amplify outrage for engagement. It shares mechanisms with conditions like the compulsive Internet Gaming Disorder (IGD-11) noted in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) and broader problematic social media use. While not yet a standalone diagnosis in manuals like the DSM-5 or ICD-11, severity scales now quantify it as a rigid, harmful behavioral cluster. In politically charged environments like Uganda’s 2026 polls marked by internet blackouts, arrests of unruly opposition radicals, and polarized discourse; the risks intensify, turning information-seeking into a self-perpetuating source of suffering.

The argument for classifying it as mental illness is clear: when a behavior is compulsive, dopamine-driven, resistant to simple willpower, and consistently linked to psychiatric worsening including exacerbated depression, generalized anxiety, insomnia, reduced life satisfaction, and even physical health decline, it enters pathological territory. Dismissing it as “just keeping up with politics” ignores the toll on millions, especially in high-stakes contexts where social media becomes the primary source of news amid restrictions.

Formal recognition would enable better responses. Mental health professionals could screen for doomscrolling in clients showing anxiety, low mood, or sleep issues, using cognitive-behavioral techniques to break reward loops, build uncertainty tolerance, and foster healthier habits. Public campaigns in Uganda and beyond could highlight it alongside other compulsions, urging balanced consumption. Platforms might add tools like scroll limits or negativity filters which is very highly unlikely, though history shows governments sometimes restrict access instead. Individually, enforce device curfews, designate no-news periods, curate positive or neutral follows, and practice mindfulness to sit with uncertainty rather than chase endless updates.

Doomscrolling during Uganda’s 2026 elections was not mere curiosity, it was a digital trap eroding mental well-being amid real political tensions. Viewing it as a form of mental illness is not alarmist; it is a vital acknowledgment that helps us reclaim agency in an era engineered to keep us scrolling through the shadows. By naming the problem, we take the first step toward healthier engagement with our shared reality.

Politics

Lessons from America’s Political Division: A Warning for Uganda

Central to America’s division is the mainstream media, which wields immense influence but often prioritizes narrative over neutrality.

Published

2 days ago

January 29, 2026

Mark Okot

Shannon Stapleton/Reuters

In an era of deepening global interconnectedness, nations like Uganda can draw critical insights from the political turmoil unfolding in the United States. The U.S., once hailed as a beacon of democracy, is now gripped by extreme partisan division that threatens its social fabric and governance. This division manifests in a vicious cycle: one party loses power, incites unrest, implements polarizing policies upon regaining it, and repeats the process. As Ugandans, we must heed these warnings to avoid similar pitfalls, particularly the role of biased media in fueling conflict. By examining the U.S. experience, we can prioritize national unity over unchecked individualism, ensuring media accountability and responsible discourse for the greater good.

The U.S. political landscape operates in a repetitive loop driven by partisan animosity. When Democrats (often aligned with left-leaning ideologies) lose elections, they have historically mobilized protests and legal challenges that escalate into riots or widespread unrest. For instance, following Donald Trump’s 2016 victory, opposition framed as “resistance” included mass demonstrations and accusations of illegitimacy. When Republicans regain power; as with Trump’s return in 2024, they confront these tactics head-on, implementing reforms that provoke further backlash. Democrats then regain office, enact policies perceived as radical (such as expansive social programs or lax immigration enforcement), leading to public disillusionment and economic strain. Inflation surges, crime rates climb in certain areas, and cultural shifts alienate moderates, paving the way for Republican resurgence. This pattern has intensified over decades, eroding trust in institutions and fostering a zero-sum mentality where compromise is rare.

A key driver of this cycle is affective polarization, where Americans increasingly view the opposing party not just as wrong, but as morally corrupt or dangerous. Causes include generational shifts, with younger voters leaning left on social issues while older ones prioritize economic conservatism; geographic sorting, where liberals cluster in urban areas and conservatives in rural ones; and the rise of identity politics, amplifying divisions along racial, cultural, and class lines. The effects are profound: legislative gridlock, as seen in repeated government shutdowns; eroded democratic norms, with events like the January 6, 2021, Capitol riot highlighting how rhetoric can spill into violence; and a public health toll, including increased stress and social isolation.

Central to America’s division is the mainstream media, which wields immense influence but often prioritizes narrative over neutrality. Studies from UCLA indicate that a significant portion estimated at around 80-90% based on analyses of major outlets leans left, with 18 out of 20 prominent sources scoring liberal in bias assessments. Networks like CNN and MSNBC exemplify this, contributing to what many perceive as a coordinated assault on conservative figures, particularly Donald Trump. This bias didn’t emerge overnight; it stems from a historical shift where journalists increasingly identify as Democrats, leading to skewed coverage that demonizes opponents.

The origins trace back to Trump’s 2016 campaign, when his outsider status and blunt rhetoric clashed with media elites. Coverage of Trump has been overwhelmingly negative; about 92% in his first 100 days of the second term, according to media watchdogs like the Media Research Center focusing on scandals while downplaying achievements. Examples abound: Trump’s “Muslim ban” was labeled xenophobic, yet similar travel restrictions under prior administrations went unchallenged. This selective outrage extends to policy critiques, where media outlets amplify progressive voices while marginalizing conservative ones, creating echo chambers that radicalize audiences.

Immigration policy vividly illustrates media double standards. Previous presidents, including Bill Clinton (who deported over 12 million), George W. Bush (nearly 2 million formal removals), and Barack Obama (over 3 million, earning the moniker “Deporter-in-Chief”), enforced strict border measures without widespread media condemnation. CNN even embedded reporters in ICE raids under Obama, portraying them positively as necessary enforcement, with a 2016 segment granting “exclusive access” to operations in Chicago.

Contrast this with Trump: His deportation efforts, though fewer than Obama’s (around 2 million), were vilified as cruel and racist. Under Biden, policies like expanded parole programs and reduced interior enforcement led to a surge, with unauthorized immigrants reaching a record 14 million by 2023 and over 8 million encounters at the border. This influx strained resources, contributing to crime spikes in some cities and public backlash that helped Trump’s 2024 reelection on a deportation platform. Yet, media outlets and Democrats framed Trump’s plans as “mass deportations” inciting violence, stoking protests and state-level resistance (e.g., sanctuary cities refusing ICE cooperation). When confrontations occur such as arrests turning violent, the blame shifts to Republicans, fueling more unrest and electoral shifts.

This propaganda tactic follows a pattern: Lose elections, amplify outrage through media, incite resistance, blame opponents for fallout, regain power, implement unpopular policies (e.g., “woke” ideologies or unchecked migration), alienate the populace, and lose again. The result? Deepened division, with families fractured and communities polarized.

Uganda, with its own history of political transitions and media influence, must learn from America’s mistakes to foster sustainable development. Media is a vital communication tool but can become a society’s worst enemy when it peddles bias over facts. To prevent division, Uganda should enforce stricter regulations: Revoke licenses for outlets spreading negative propaganda, as unchecked narratives erode trust. Social media moderation is essential, holding users accountable for speech that incites violence or insurrection echoing global calls to curb misinformation without stifling debate.

For societal harmony, individual freedoms must sometimes yield to collective well-being. Criticizing government is healthy, but it should include constructive solutions, not mere provocation. By limiting divisive rhetoric and promoting balanced reporting, Uganda can avoid the U.S.’s fate, building a cohesive nation focused on progress rather than perpetual conflict.