Bunyoro Leaders Demand Greater Local Content Benefits from Oil and Gas Projects

What the report says

Leaders, residents and local contractors in Uganda’s Bunyoro sub-region are pressing oil and gas companies to widen local participation in jobs and business contracts, arguing that communities hosting major petroleum projects have not yet seen enough benefits. The concerns were aired at a supplier development workshop in Hoima City over the weekend, which was meant to help local businesses build the skills needed to compete in the sector.

Hoima District Chairperson Uthuman Mugisha said many locals still miss out on meaningful employment, and claimed that when they are hired it is often for low-paying casual work. He also said local firms are frequently given lower-value contracts than outside companies. Hoima District Woman MP Beatrice Wembabazi called for community workers to help residents register for opportunities, while Hoima City contractor Leonard Kusemererwa accused some oil companies of delaying payment to local service providers. A resident, Richard Mwesigwa, also urged companies to prioritize host-community businesses and workers.

The Bunyoro sub-region hosts two of Uganda’s major upstream projects: the Kingfisher Development Area in Kikuube District, operated by CNOOC Uganda, and the Tilenga Project in Buliisa District, operated by TotalEnergies EP Uganda. In response, Petroleum Authority of Uganda economist Eric Odongo said local entrepreneurs must register on the National Supplier Database to qualify for contracts and suggested joint ventures to improve competitiveness. UNOC officials said local participation has improved, and pointed to broader opportunities linked to the planned oil refinery and Kabalega International Airport.