Museveni Set to Name Uganda's First Crude Oil Blend

Uganda’s crude oil is set to receive its official name tomorrow, Wednesday, as President Yoweri Museveni is expected to preside over a naming ceremony. This event, taking place during a visit to oil development sites in the Albertine Graben, signifies a crucial step towards commercial oil production.

The naming ceremony will give Uganda’s crude an identity in the international petroleum market, distinguishing it as the country moves from resource development to production, transportation, and export.

This anticipated presidential visit follows an inspection of the Tilenga project by Energy and Mineral Development Minister Dr. Monica Musenero Masanza. The minister, accompanied by officials from the Ministry, the Petroleum Authority of Uganda (PAU), and the Uganda National Oil Company (UNOC), reviewed ongoing construction at the Central Processing Facility (CPF), which is currently 72% complete, and drilling operations. The delegation also engaged with Project Affected Persons (PAPs) to assess livelihood restoration efforts.

A UNOC statement highlighted the significance of the naming, stating it marks the moment Uganda’s oil transitions “from being known by what it is to being known by what it is called.” The chosen name is expected to reflect the unique characteristics of Uganda’s crude.

Meanwhile, the Tilenga project continues to advance, with TotalEnergies EP Uganda General Manager Philippe Groueix reporting strong momentum and thousands of workers on-site. The CPF’s construction is being expedited to handle crude oil processing before it enters the transportation system.

Minister Musenero urged that the project’s benefits extend beyond the construction phase, emphasizing skills development and business opportunities for local communities and Ugandans. TotalEnergies Uganda reported that nearly 16,000 Ugandans have been employed on the project, with over $795 million spent on local goods and services.

https://observer.ug/news/museveni-to-name-ugandas-crude-oil-blend-tomorrow