Uganda and Tanzania Host 2nd Oil and Gas Symposium, Focusing on Sustainable Partnerships

Uganda and Tanzania hosted the 2nd Oil and Gas Symposium at Kampala Serena Hotel under the theme; “Enhancing linkages for sustainable partnerships.”

Speaking at the gathering on Thursday, Ambassador Colonel (RTD) Fred Mwesigye, Uganda’s High Commissioner to Tanzania, emphasized the significance of building enduring relationships rooted in sustainability, inclusivity, and mutual benefit.

“This theme underscores our commitment to fostering partnerships transcending boundaries, leveraging strengths, and driving positive change,” he said.

Colonel Mwesigye highlighted the symposium’s value in building upon past successes and shaping the future of oil and gas industries through engaging discussions, presentations, and networking opportunities.

He noted the important role of infrastructure projects, particularly spotlighting the East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP) project, in unlocking the region’s oil and gas resources’ full potential.

Colonel Mwesigye noted the transformative impact of the EACOP project, highlighting recent developments such as the thermal insulation/coating plant launch in Sojo village, Nzega District, Tanzania, which has generated numerous employment opportunities.

Participants will also learn about the latest state-of-the-art technology integrated into the pipeline and its application in both Ugandan and Tanzanian contexts.

Colonel Mwesigye stressed the importance of integration within the East African Community (EAC) and beyond, symbolized by the EACOP project, fostering unity, cooperation, and shared prosperity.

He urged consideration of extension routes northwards to Juba in South Sudan, emphasizing the project’s potential to deepen integration within the EAC region and across Africa.

Looking forward, Colonel Mwesigye expressed the intention to hold the Tanzania-Uganda Oil and Gas Symposium annually, underscoring the belief in the power of dialogue, collaboration, and continuous engagement for progress and innovation in the sectors.

He commended the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Uganda Chamber of Mines and Petroleum, partners, sponsors, and participants for their invaluable contributions towards sustainable partnerships and inclusive growth.

The inaugural symposium in 2021 showcased the effectiveness of dialogue and partnership in advancing collective goals, with stakeholders from both countries collaborating to explore opportunities and address challenges in the oil and gas sector.