Uganda’s journey toward becoming a significant oil producer is gaining momentum, with key projects progressing steadily toward the critical 2026 deadline for first oil production.
The recent field visit by Ernest Rubondo, the Executive Director of the Petroleum Authority of Uganda (PAU), underscored the significant strides being made across the sector’s major developments.
This coordinated push, involving major players like TotalEnergies and CNOOC Uganda, signals a firm commitment to a future powered by petroleum.
Progress at the Core of the Projects
Rubondo’s visit revealed impressive progress on the foundational projects that will enable oil production and export, some of which include;
Kingfisher Project (CNOOC Uganda)
This project, located in the Kikuube District, is moving ahead swiftly. All 14 wells needed for first oil have already been drilled out of a total of 31 planned.
The entire project is now at 70% completion, with its Central Processing Facility nearing completion at an impressive 88%. Mechanical completion is expected by the fourth quarter of 2025, keeping it firmly on track.
Tilenga Project (TotalEnergies)
In the Buliisa and Nwoya districts, the Tilenga project is also advancing well. A total of 143 wells have been drilled out of the 170 needed for first oil. According to Rubondo, this is a significant milestone, considering the project’s overall plan to develop 426 wells. The continued drilling activity shows a robust commitment to meeting the production targets.
These upstream efforts are crucial, as they are the first step in a complex value chain that will transform Uganda’s economy.
The Backbone of the Industry
The field tour also highlighted the vital infrastructure that will connect the oil fields to the international market.
EACOP (East African Crude Oil Pipeline)
The pipeline, which will be the primary export route for Uganda’s crude oil, stands at 65% overall progress. The tour included a visit to Pump Station 1 in the Kabalega Industrial Park, the starting point for the 1,443 km-long pipeline. This station is where both the Kingfisher and Tilenga feeder pipelines will terminate, serving as a critical hub for the entire operation.
Kabalega International Airport
Essential for logistics and project support, the airport is nearing completion. It is expected to be commissioned before the end of 2025, providing a key piece of infrastructure to support the ongoing oil and gas activities.
The visible progress across these projects demonstrates that Uganda’s oil and gas sector is steadily moving toward its first oil target in 2026.
This ambitious deadline requires a coordinated effort, and the latest reports show the sector is on solid footing, setting the stage for a new chapter in Uganda’s economic history.