Uganda’s path to first oil

At African Energy Week, Uganda National Oil Company CEO Proscovia Nabbanja outlined Uganda’s readiness to enter the global oil market as the country approaches its first oil milestone. Backed by nearly two decades of planning and billions in investment, Uganda is preparing to introduce its low-sulfur “Pearl Sweet” crude to international buyers while advancing major infrastructure projects, including the East African Crude Oil Pipeline, a refinery and a petrochemical industrial park. The discussion highlighted Uganda’s long-term vision to maximize value from its energy resources through domestic refining, job creation, industrial development and energy security. Nabbanja also emphasized the importance of regional collaboration, innovative financing solutions and cross-border energy partnerships to unlock Africa’s energy potential. Her message reinforced Uganda’s ambition to become a key energy supplier while driving economic growth and supporting broader development goals across the continent.