As Uganda prepares to harness its oil resources, TotalEnergies EP Uganda (TEPU) has asserted that the country has every right to produce its own energy.
Speaking at the 9th Oil and Gas Convention, TEPU’s General Manager, Philippe Groueix, emphasized responsible development. “A just energy transition recognizes Uganda’s right to develop its oil and gas resources. We must do so responsibly, even as the world moves towards decarbonization.”
Groueix, told the energy experts convened at the Serena Hotel that it is critical for the world to follow a just energy transition and this means African countries like Uganda have the right to develop their oil and gas resources responsibly, even amidst global decarbonization efforts.
He stated that stakeholders like TotalEnergies are committed to put in practice more sustainable energy extraction ways than have been practiced elsewhere in the world.
“TEPU’s impressive track record includes remarkable reductions in carbon dioxide emissions, with their flagship Tilenga and Kingfisher projects emitting only 13 kg of carbon dioxide per barrel produced and transported—far below the industry average of 33 kg,” he stated, reiterating that TotalEnergies remains steadfast in its pledge to support the nation’s energy transition.
“Our commitment is anchored on our desire to achieve together with society net zero emissions by 2050 and to foster sustainable development in the countries where we operate.”
Groueix outlined that TotalEnergies are set to produce 100,000ktons of LPG per year in Tilenga and Kingfisher, which presents an opportunity to substitute use of charcoal with LPG and this will in in turn improve health of communities and help to reduce the country’s CO2 emissions.
“We have engaged in a very large agricultural development programe and we are active in access to water, energy and education.” Groueix added.
“On the #Tilenga project progress, we are drilling at full speed with 3 rigs, 2 in the South Nile and 1 in the park. We are about to move the 2nd rig to the park by mid-May in order to accelerate drilling with the objective to conclude the first drilling sequence by end of 2025 and reduce significantly the industrial activity in the park, leaving it to the tourists by end of 2025”, he said.
The Annual Oil & Gas Convention, now in its 9th year plays a critical role in creating opportunities for Uganda’s domestic and international interests.
It brings together key policy & decision makers, business leaders, bankers, academia and investors from all over the world.
Elly Karuhanga, the chairman of the board of trustees of the Uganda Chamber of Mines and Petroleum delivered a keynote address, spelling out Uganda’s journey to first oil in the face of a just energy transition.
“In our journey to harness Uganda’s oil wealth, we faced a barrage of skepticism and fear-mongering surrounding the ‘oil curse’ The media and civil society organisation painted a bleak picture, instilling doubts about our ability to responsibly manage this valuable resource,” Karuhanga stated, adding: “People were scared that our country would suffer because of the oil. The media and some Civil Society groups didn’t help either, spreading negative stories. But we didn’t give up. We fought back against the negativity and stayed focused on managing our resources responsibly.”
He added that it was an uphill task convincing Ugandans and the world but with the help of supportive leaders and teamwork, the country is closer to its goals.
“Now, as we get closer to making our oil dreams a reality, we can look back and feel proud of how far we’ve come. It wasn’t easy, but we never gave up, and that’s what got us here,” Karuhanga stated.
