Why Uganda must accelerate exploration beyond First Oil

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COMMENT | GLORIA SEBIKARI | As Uganda races toward First Oil, it is essential that the country keeps one eye on current developments and another firmly fixed on the future. While the Tilenga, Kingfisher, East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP), and Refinery projects are progressing, Uganda must fast-track new oil exploration to secure long-term production, maximize economic benefits, fully utilise the petroleum infrastructure, as well as achieve a sustainable oil and gas industry in the country.

Uganda has already confirmed an estimated 6.65 billion barrels of oil in place, with about 1.6 billion barrels considered recoverable. These resources are significant and have the potential to transform the country through increased revenues, investments, industrialisation, and job creation. However, petroleum resources are finite, and sustained economic benefits will depend on the country’s ability to replace and expand its reserves through ongoing exploration.