The Petroleum Authority of Uganda (PAU) has hosted the 3rd Annual National Conference with Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) today, May 23, 2025, under the theme “Discerning the Business, Social, and Human Rights Issues in Uganda’s Oil and Gas Sector.”

The conference underscored the importance of collaborative responsibility in ensuring that Uganda’s oil and gas resources benefit all citizens equitably and sustainably.

In his opening remarks, PAU Executive Director Ernest Rubondo warmly welcomed participants and commended the longstanding partnership between government agencies and CSOs. He noted that civil society has been instrumental in fostering meaningful dialogue on social, human rights, and environmental concerns since 2008.

“Civil society organizations have played a pivotal role in shaping a more accountable and inclusive oil and gas sector. Their continued engagement has enriched policy discussions and guided our commitment to responsible resource management,” Rubondo said.

Rubondo outlined the government’s progress in laying a strong foundation for sustainable oil production. He cited achievements such as internationally compliant land acquisition processes, youth-centered job creation and skills development, major infrastructure upgrades, and corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives in health and education, as well as growth in key sectors like agriculture and tourism.

Rubondo also highlighted the government’s ongoing efforts to maintain transparency and adhere to rigorous environmental, health, and safety standards.

Bashir Twesigye, Chairperson of the Civil Society Coalition on Oil (CSCO), echoed these sentiments and stressed the importance of reflection and accountability.

“This conference is a crucial opportunity to assess progress since our last gathering and to confront emerging challenges in the sector,” Twesigye said. “Uganda’s oil and gas development must foster inclusive growth, promote community engagement, and ensure equitable benefits for all.”

Philippe Groueix, General Manager of Total Energies Uganda, highlighted the company’s role in delivering community-orientated results through initiatives such as the Community Agriculture Initiative.

Groueix said that this program has directly supported over 8,000 community members by helping smallholder farmers improve yields, enhancing access to markets, and expanding services in education and healthcare.

“This is not just about oil extraction, it is about transforming lives and through community-validated projects, we are turning vision into tangible outcomes,” Groueix noted.

The conference supported the shared commitment of government, private sector, and civil society to prioritize people and the planet in Uganda’s oil and gas journey. Speakers emphasized that Uganda’s oil and gas sector must be more than extractive, it must be transformative, addressing critical needs like food security, job creation, and social infrastructure.

As the sector advances, stakeholders agreed that placing local communities at the heart of decision-making processes will be essential to ensuring lasting benefits and sustainable development for future generations.