The relationship between LSM and ASM operators can be complex, fragile, and sometimes descend into hostility and conflict. The research identified the challenges of LSM-ASM co-existence in Mubende district, the gaps in mining policy and Mining Act, 2003 and Mining Regulations,2004 in mining industry and possibilities of the two parties mining together. This research took both a descriptive and quantitative survey design. Questionnaires, interviews and observation helped in identifying AUC mining (U) limited and ASM co-existence challenges, the gaps in mining policy and Mining Act (2003) and Mining Regulation (2004) in mining industry and possibilities of AUC mining (U) limited and ASM going back to work together. The survey shows that trespass, ASM reliance on AUC technology, lack of government on ground and redundancy of AUC ML are the main challenges to the relationship between AUC mining limited and ASM in Bukuya. If ASM is formalized by (value addition, financing ASM activities, organizing ASM into associations, granting ASM licenses, opening up jewelry shops), government presence on ground, and prioritizing infrastructure in the mining areas, will increase the possibilities of LSM and ASM mutual co-existence. For the gosvernment of Uganda to provide conducive environments for minerals investors, it is good that it has considerations (relocating ASM to new mining areas) for ASM during their eviction. It should additionally improve the social life of ASM operators by providing basic necessities of life such as, health, food and accommodation. The government should improve its monitoring and inspection programs on ASM gold mining since the ASM evade taxes leaving the state with no benefits. Formalization of ASM will increase the revenue collected from mining industry.

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