Petroleum authority, Foreign Affairs ministry discuss oil drilling progress

KAMPALA, UGANDA – Petroleum Authority ofUganda (PAU) has briefed the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on the progress of oil drilling in the country. The meeting, which took place on Monday aimed to enhance regional environmental safety and strengthen the oil and gas sector.

Led by Dr. Joseph Kabusheshe, Director of Environmental Health and Safety at PAU, the delegation discussed the authority’s National Oil Spill Contingency Plan with Ambassador Richard Kabonero, Head of Regional Economic Cooperation Department at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The plan is designed to ensure rapid and effective response to any potential oil spill incidents within Uganda. Dr. Kabusheshe emphasized the importance of collaborating with neighboring countries that could be affected by oil spill events. He noted that the plan is robust, detailed, and comprehensive, and that PAU is willing to share it with neighboring countries.

Ambassador Kabonero expressed support for enhanced regional partnerships, stressing the need for a cohesive approach to oil spill management. He highlighted the importance of transboundary cooperation and the need for a multinational approach to ensure environmental protection and sustainable development.

The meeting agreed to establish a dedicated committee to formulate and implement strategic agreements with neighboring nations. This committee will serve as a platform for dialogue, cooperation, and coordination, ensuring that Uganda and its neighbors are well-prepared to address any oil spill contingencies.

This initiative marks a significant milestone in Uganda’s environmental and energy sector policies, reflecting the country’s commitment to international standards of safety, sustainability, and regional cooperation.