The Deputy Speaker of Parliament has called for disciplined execution and stronger accountability in Uganda’s oil and gas sector, as the country intensifies preparations for first oil production expected in July this year.
Opening the 11th Oil and Gas Convention at Speke Resort Munyonyo on Tuesday morning, the Deputy Speaker said Uganda’s petroleum journey had reached a defining moment, noting that the sector is central to the country’s long-term economic transformation agenda.
He said oil production is expected to unlock Uganda’s economic potential and serve as a key driver of the government’s ambition to expand the economy from about $50 billion to $500 billion by 2040.
This growth strategy, he noted, is anchored in agro-industrialisation, tourism development, mineral-based industrialisation, and investment in science and innovation.
“Oil production will no doubt unlock Uganda’s full economic potential,” he said, adding that Parliament remains committed to providing legislative support and oversight to ensure the sector delivers tangible benefits to citizens.
He emphasised the need to prioritise transparency, strengthen local content participation, and expand opportunities for Ugandans in high-value segments of the petroleum value chain.
As Uganda transitions from infrastructure development to production, the Deputy Speaker underscored opportunities in enterprise growth, technology transfer, and positioning the country as a regional energy hub.
“The foundation has been laid what we need now is disciplined execution,” he said.
During the same event, government officially launched the National Petroleum Policy 2025, which replaces the National Oil and Gas Policy of 2008.
The new framework is intended to guide the entire petroleum value chain as Uganda moves closer to commercial production.
The Deputy Speaker congratulated the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development and technical teams on the policy milestone, describing it as timely and strategic.
He also called on government, the private sector, and regional partners to work together to ensure petroleum resources drive industrial transformation and long-term shared prosperity.
