Uganda and Tanzania recently convened the 2nd Oil and Gas Symposium at Kampala Serena Hotel, focusing on the theme “Enhancing Linkages for Sustainable Partnerships.”
During the symposium, Ambassador Colonel (RTD) Fred Mwesigye, Uganda’s High Commissioner to Tanzania, emphasized the importance of cultivating enduring relationships grounded in sustainability, inclusivity, and mutual benefit.
He underscored the symposium’s role in building upon past achievements and shaping the future trajectory of the oil and gas industries through engaging discussions, presentations, and networking opportunities.
Colonel Mwesigye particularly highlighted the significance of infrastructure projects like the East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP) in unlocking the full potential of the region’s oil and gas resources.
He emphasized recent milestones such as the launch of a thermal insulation/coating plant in Sojo village, Nzega District, Tanzania, which has created numerous job opportunities, showcasing the transformative impact of the EACOP project.
The symposium also served as a platform to showcase the latest state-of-the-art technology integrated into the pipeline, with insights into its application in both Ugandan and Tanzanian contexts.
Colonel Mwesigye stressed the importance of regional integration within the East African Community (EAC) and beyond, exemplified by the EACOP project, fostering unity, cooperation, and shared prosperity.
He proposed exploring extension routes northwards to Juba in South Sudan, highlighting the project’s potential to deepen integration within the EAC region and across Africa.
Looking ahead, Colonel Mwesigye expressed the intention to host the Tanzania-Uganda Oil and Gas Symposium annually, affirming 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 symposium builds upon the success of the inaugural event in 2021, which demonstrated the effectiveness of dialogue and collaboration in advancing collective goals within the oil and gas sector.
