20 Ugandans Achieve International Certifications in Oil & Gas Safety and Inspection

Twenty Ugandan professionals have been awarded internationally recognized certifications, bolstering the nation’s capacity within its developing oil and gas industry. China Petroleum Pipeline Engineering Co. Ltd (CPP), a key contractor for the East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP) and the Tilenga feeder pipeline, sponsored the specialized training as part of its commitment to local content development.

The program, held in Kampala, saw participants undergo rigorous training facilitated by Sunmaker and hosted by E-Light. Ten professionals achieved the NEBOSH International General Certificate (IGC) in Occupational Health and Safety. This qualification equips them with essential skills in identifying risks, managing hazards, implementing safety controls, and monitoring performance to uphold stringent safety standards in oil operations.

An additional ten professionals completed Level II training in Non-Destructive Testing (NDT). Their expertise now covers crucial inspection methods such as ultrasonic, radiographic, magnetic particle, and penetrant testing. These advanced, non-invasive techniques are vital for assessing the integrity of welds and materials in critical infrastructure without causing damage.

CPP highlighted that these newly acquired competencies are versatile, extending beyond the EACOP project to potentially benefit other oil developments and the broader industrial manufacturing sector in Uganda. Zhang Haitao, CPP National Content Manager, reaffirmed the company’s dedication to capacity building, stating, “Our commitment to Uganda remains strong… Through our partnership with Sunmaker, we have fulfilled our pledge to develop a pool of internationally certified Ugandan professionals.” He added that the acquired skills will provide long-term value during the operational and maintenance phases of Uganda’s oil and gas projects.

This initiative builds upon CPP’s extensive national content agenda, which has previously included various training programs, internships, and scholarships aimed at empowering the Ugandan workforce for the petroleum sector. The EACOP project itself involves a 1,443-kilometer heated pipeline transporting crude oil from Hoima, Uganda, to Tanga, Tanzania, managed by a joint venture including TotalEnergies, UNOC, TPDC, and CNOOC Uganda Limited.

Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)