Katikkiro Charles Peter Mayiga shakes hands with EACOP Managing Director Guillaume Dulout at Bulange, Mengo
The Buganda Kingdom has today hosted leaders from the East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP), who presented their plans for transporting crude oil from Bunyoro to Tanzania.
This meeting focused on how the pipeline project will be implemented without affecting cultural heritage, the environment, and the well-being of communities living along the pipeline route.
"The Kingdom supports oil extraction and the construction of the pipeline, but the revenues generated must directly benefit the people through education, healthcare, and infrastructure development such as roads to boost trade and industries. These projects should not harm the environment," said Katikkiro Charles Peter Mayiga.
Katikkiro Mayiga met with EACOP officials, who presented their plans for constructing the oil pipeline from Hoima to Tanga in Tanzania. He emphasized that oil revenues should benefit citizens in key areas such as education, healthcare, and national economic growth.
Katikkiro with EACOP Managing Director Guillaume Dulout, Owek. Robert Waggwa Nsibirwa, Owek. Israel Kazibwe Kitooke, BICUL Managing Director Omuk. Roland Ssebuufu, and other officials at Bulange
The meeting, held at Bulange, Mmengo, on Tuesday, saw Katikkiro highlight that while oil is a valuable resource, the money it generates should be used in ways that uplift ordinary people.
"Oil is wealth, and when you possess wealth, you must use it to meet your needs. However, the key issue we must focus on is how the money from oil is being used," Katikkiro Mayiga stated.
He further explained that while the Kingdom supports oil extraction and transportation to markets, all related activities should be conducted in ways that benefit people without harming the environment.
Mayiga noted that many developing countries often misuse oil revenues, leading to extravagance while their populations remain in extreme poverty. He urged that oil revenues be directed towards environmental conservation, supporting agriculture and livestock farming, education, and building quality roads to boost trade.
The Second Deputy Katikkiro, Owek. Robert Waggwa Nsibirwa, stressed that this initiative should result in development that benefits both the people and the country. He highlighted that people's welfare comes first and that such projects can enhance healthcare, education, and other essential services.
The delegation, led by EACOP's Managing Director Guillaume Dulout, acknowledged that constructing the oil pipeline requires consultations with all stakeholders. He mentioned that they have plans to compensate those affected by the pipeline, create employment opportunities for the youth, and provide access to clean water and solar energy.
The meeting was also attended by the Kingdom’s Minister for Information, Israel Kazibwe Kitooke, BICUL’s Managing Director Omuk. Roland Ssebuufu, and other officials.