Stakeholders in the oil and gas sector have called for sustained community engagement, inclusive development, and responsible investment as the country prepares to begin oil production.
The call was made during the 4th Annual Joint Civil Society Organisation (CSO) Conference, held at Mestil Hotel in Kampala under the theme, “Advancing Sustainability in Uganda’s Oil and Gas Sector: Progress, Lessons, and Looking Ahead.”
Speaking at the conference, TotalEnergies Uganda General Manager Philippe Groueix emphasised that success in the oil and gas industry should go beyond production figures to include improving livelihoods and creating lasting positive impacts in communities where projects operate.
He noted that TotalEnergies prioritises people-centred initiatives aimed at improving community livelihoods.
Similarly, EACOP Deputy Managing Director J.B. Habumugisha highlighted the importance of ensuring that the East African Crude Oil Pipeline project delivers benefits beyond infrastructure development, including opportunities for young people, access to clean water and healthcare, safety, and environmental protection.
CSCO Chairperson Bashir Twesigye stressed the need for continued community engagement as Uganda moves toward oil production, noting that addressing local challenges is essential for long-term sustainability.
Meanwhile, Dr. Monica Musenero observed that sustainability should not be treated as a fixed achievement but as a continuous process that requires innovation and adaptation.
Tony Okao Otoa, Corporate Affairs Officer at the Uganda National Oil Company (UNOC), called for balanced and evidence-based discussions, urging stakeholders to investigate claims about the sector and consider different perspectives before concluding.
As Uganda approaches first oil production, participants emphasised that the sector’s long-term success will ultimately depend not only on its economic contribution but also on its ability to deliver meaningful and sustainable benefits to people and communities.
