By Eumu Emmanuel
District leaders from areas surrounding Lake Kyoga and Kwania basin, where oil and gas deposits have been discovered, are urging the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development to educate the community and provide clear information about the project. This call was made during a district engagement meeting held at Dokolo District Council Hall on January 13, 2025.
Geoffrey Ocen, LCV Chairperson of Amolatar District, emphasized the need for transparent information to facilitate sensitization efforts. He also requested that environmental impact assessment reports be translated into local languages to benefit the community.
James Otoo Apili, LCV Chairperson of Dokolo District, highlighted the importance of capacity building for leaders and communities to actively participate in the project’s development. Samuel Okello, LCV Chairperson of Kalaki, requested that the ministry facilitate leaders in the lake basin to ensure effective community sensitization.
The leaders pledged their support for the project, emphasizing the need for a collaborative approach in handling oil and gas exploration activities. Tonny Sserubiri, Principal Geologist from the Directorate of Petroleum, explained that the ministry aims to create awareness and build capacity among leaders regarding oil and gas exploration.
The government has declared the opening of three additional frontier basins, including the Lake Kyoga Basin, for petroleum exploration ¹. This move is expected to bolster Uganda’s petroleum reserves and develop its infrastructure for oil production.