By Ezekiel David
The oil industry is causing considerable suffering for the indigenous inhabitants around Lake Albert in Uganda, according to a new report by Climate Rights International.
The Kingfisher oil project, operated by China National Offshore Oil Corporation (CNOOC), the report alleges, has led to forced displacement, inadequate compensation, intimidation, loss of livelihood, and even sexual violence.
The report, based on numerous interviews, is the first to detail such serious accusations against CNOOC, a partner in Uganda’s nascent oil industry.
“It’s appalling that a project touted as bringing prosperity to Uganda is instead leaving people as victims of violence, intimidation, and poverty,” stated Brad Adams, executive director of Climate Rights International. He described the Kingfisher project as “not only a dangerous carbon bomb but also a human rights disaster.”
Dozens of interviewees accused Ugandan government troops of being responsible for forced evictions, destruction of property, violence, and fostering a climate of fear. The report urges banks and insurers to halt funding for the project.
Uganda’s oil reserves are estimated at 1.4 billion barrels, with production expected to commence by 2026. The oil sector’s total investment is projected to reach $15 billion. While French company TotalEnergies holds the majority stake (56.67%), CNOOC owns 28.33%, and the Uganda National Oil Company holds 15%.
Previous criticisms of Uganda’s oil projects have primarily targeted TotalEnergies, facing lawsuits in France over alleged human rights violations. Campaigners have also opposed the planned 897-mile East Africa Crude Oil Pipeline, a joint venture by TotalEnergies and CNOOC, citing environmental concerns.
TotalEnergies maintains that the pipeline’s design prioritises safety. CNOOC Uganda did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Ugandan officials have defended the project, emphasising its potential to alleviate poverty and criticising climate campaigns as interference. President Yoweri Museveni has warned that if TotalEnergies and its partners withdraw, Uganda will “find someone else to work with.”
(Source: AP)