REPUBLIC OF UGANDA

STATEMENT 

BY

AMB. COL. (RTD.) FRED MWESIGYE

HIGH COMMISSIONER OF THE REPUBLIC OF UGANDA TO THE UNITED REPUBLIC OF TANZANIA

DURING THE  2ND TANZANIA-UGANDA OIL AND GAS SYMPOSIUM 

18TH  APRIL 2024

Honorable Minister,

Your Excellency Maj. Gen. Paul Kiseme High Commissioner of Tanzania to Uganda,

The Permanent Secretary Ministry of Foreign Affairs,

The Permanent Secretary Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development,

The Executive Director Petroleum Authority of Uganda

The Chairman and Management Uganda Chamber of Mines and Petroleum

The Chairman Private Sector Foundation of Uganda

The General Manager Total Energies

The President CNOOC Uganda

The CEO Uganda National Oil Company

The Managing Director EACOP

Distinguished Representatives, panelists and participants

Ladies and Gentlemen,

As we gather here today for the 2nd Tanzania-Uganda Oil and Gas Symposium, it is with great pleasure and optimism that I address you. This symposium marks another milestone in the longstanding and historical strong relations between Tanzania and Uganda. These long-shared ties are grounded in mutual respect, collaboration, and a shared vision for a prosperous future. 

Reflecting on the inaugural symposium held in 2021, we witnessed the power of dialogue and partnership in advancing our collective goals. Through collaborative efforts, stakeholders from both Tanzania and Uganda came together to explore opportunities, address challenges, and forge pathways towards sustainable development in the oil and gas sectors. The inaugural symposium achieved significant milestones, laying the groundwork for enhanced cooperation and deeper engagement between our two countries.

As we convene for the 2nd Tanzania-Uganda Oil and Gas Symposium, we do so under the theme of "Enhancing linkages for sustainable partnerships." This theme underscores the importance of building strong, enduring relationships that are anchored in sustainability, inclusivity, and mutual benefit. It speaks to our shared commitment to fostering partnerships that transcend boundaries, leverage our respective strengths, and drive positive change in our communities.

Ladies and gentlemen,

This symposium presents a valuable opportunity to build upon the successes of the past and chart a course for the future of our oil and gas industries. We can expect engaging discussions, thought-provoking presentations, and fruitful networking opportunities that will enable us to delve deeper into key issues, exchange insights, and forge partnerships.

Central to our discussions will be the critical role of infrastructure projects in unlocking the full potential of our oil and gas resources. In particular, we will spotlight the East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP) project, a transformative initiative that holds immense importance for Tanzania and Uganda. The “longest thermos flask” as it has been termed will not only facilitate the transportation of crude oil from Uganda's oil fields to the Tanzanian coast for export but will enhance our energy security and also stimulate economic growth, create jobs, and catalyze infrastructure development. 

I have been privileged to witness some of this transformation of the towns along the project route. Just last month in a village called Sojo in Nzega District, Tanzania; the thermal insulation/ coating plant was launched. This plant has created numerous employment opportunities within the region. A total of 770 people have been employed in the plant from the construction phase to the current production phase, in areas such as running the thermal insulation production lines, logistics, maintenance and inspection. 

We shall hear about the latest innovative state of the art technology incorporated in the pipeline and how it will be applied in the Ugandan and Tanzanian contexts.

Distinguished Participants,

I cannot over emphasize the importance of integration of EAC and Africa as a whole. The EACOP project represents more than just a conduit for oil; it symbolizes a pathway towards unity, cooperation, and shared prosperity for the East African Community (EAC) and beyond.

In an era marked by globalization and interconnectedness, such collaborative endeavors are imperative for regional development and economic growth. A successful EACOP project provides a motivation for consideration of extension routes northwards to Juba in South Sudan thus serves as a catalyst for deeper integration within the EAC region and across the African continent. I would urge us all to have the issue of integration at the back of our minds in our discussions.

Looking ahead, it is our intention to hold the Tanzania-Uganda Oil and Gas Symposium annually. This commitment reflects our shared belief in the power of dialogue, collaboration, and continuous engagement in driving progress and innovation in our oil and gas sectors. By convening regularly, we can ensure that stakeholders remain connected, informed, and empowered to address emerging challenges and seize new opportunities.

As I conclude, I extend my sincere gratitude to the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Uganda Chamber of Mines and Petroleum; the partners, the sponsors and all participants for their presence and engagement in this symposium. Your contributions are invaluable as we work together towards a future of sustainable partnerships, shared prosperity, and inclusive growth for Tanzania, Uganda, and the entire East African region.

I thank you.

FOR GOD AND MY COUNTRY