The world of energy is constantly evolving, and Uganda is making strides to become a major player in this field. Following the ICOGU Energy Symposium 2025, held at the Sheraton Hotel Kampala, a two-day tour of the Albertine region was undertaken by ICOGU Members from 21st to 23rd March. The trip was an opportunity to witness firsthand how Uganda’s energy sector is shaping up, with a focus on infrastructure, innovation, and environmental sustainability.
The trip began with a visit to the Petroleum Authority of Uganda’s (PAU) regional offices in Hoima, where the group was introduced to the various ongoing projects and the sector’s ambitious roadmap. This debrief provided a bird’s-eye view of the sector’s trajectory and laid a foundation for understanding the upcoming stops.
One of the most enlightening moments of the excursion was a tour of Luwero Industries’ Waste Management Facility. Waste management might not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about energy production, but it plays a crucial role in ensuring environmental safety. Operations Manager, Namanya Bolton showcased the facility’s waste-handling process for crude oil drilling. The intricate steps taken to safely manage and treat waste demonstrated the high level of expertise and attention required to maintain ecological balance in energy extraction and production. For any ordinary observer, it was eye-opening to see the elaborate measures taken to ensure sustainability.
The Kingfisher Development Area was another highlight of the trip. Here, participants got a close-up view of crude oil processing and refining strategies. Ronald Kaija, representing the Corporate Affairs Team, explained the methods used to optimize energy output while adhering to strict environmental protocols. Witnessing the technology and meticulous planning in action made it clear that Uganda is investing heavily in advanced systems to minimize waste and maximize efficiency.
Infrastructure plays a critical role in supporting Uganda’s growing oil and gas industry, and the visit to Kabalega Industrial Park and Hoima Airport underscored this point. These projects are pivotal for the transportation of oil-related equipment, ensuring the smooth functioning of operations. As Uganda strives to position itself as a strategic player in the regional energy market, these facilities are key to achieving that goal.
The second day of the trip shifted focus to the Tilenga Project in Buliisa, operated by TotalEnergies Uganda. Rig Sinopec was the centerpiece, and Daniel Sitompul, Senior Drilling and Completion Supervisor, provided a detailed briefing on the project’s approach to sustainability. One standout innovation is the extraction of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), which offers a cleaner alternative to biomass, reducing reliance on traditional fuels. Additionally, solar energy is being integrated to minimize carbon emissions, particularly along the East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP).
The Tilenga Project is also distinguished by its zero-discharge policy, a stringent measure to ensure hazardous waste is safely transported to Hoima for treatment. To further protect the environment, waste transportation is meticulously monitored, with a mandated speed limit of 20 km/h, as per guidelines from PAU and NEMA. These initiatives reflect a commitment to balancing energy development with ecological preservation.
Beyond infrastructure and energy advancements, the trip revealed the tangible impact of Uganda’s oil industry on local communities. The land acquisition process, led by the government in collaboration with TotalEnergies, saw over 5,000 individuals compensated. Among them was William, a resident of Ngwedo, Buliisa, who shared how his compensation empowered him to start farming. With like-minded farmers, he co-founded the Ngwedo Millers Association, adding value to their cassava and enhancing livelihoods in the region.
The Albertine Progress Review Trip offered a glimpse into Uganda’s journey towards energy independence and sustainability. Each stop highlighted the intricate planning, cutting-edge technology, and environmental consciousness driving the sector forward. From waste management to refining processes, strategic infrastructure, and sustainable energy solutions, Uganda is charting a path that promises both economic growth and ecological responsibility.
As the country advances in its energy endeavors, it is clear that a thoughtful approach to development can yield benefits not just for Uganda, but for the region as a whole. For ordinary citizens, understanding these developments is a step towards appreciating the efforts behind the progress and the promise of a brighter, greener future.
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