Energy ministry to launch oil drilling activities in Kwania

By Denish Ongora  (denish.ongora@vol.co.ug)

Kwania

The Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development is preparing to launch oil drilling activities in areas surrounding Lake Kyoga and Kwania.

 According to a mineral survey conducted across several districts, including Kwania, Amolatar, Dokolo, Apac, Buyende, Kaberaimaido, Soroti, Palisa, Kiryandongo, and Serere, significant oil and other mineral deposits have been discovered in these areas.

Additional areas with potential for mineral exploration include parts of Moroto-Kadam and Hoima.

James Otoo Apili, the LC5 Chairman of Dokolo District, revealed that the ministry is actively engaging local leaders to prepare for the upcoming oil exploration and extraction projects.

        
Geoffrey Ocen, LC5 Chairman of Amolatar District, emphasized the need for the Ministry of Energy to communicate clearly with local communities, informing them about the oil exploration process and identifying the areas where oil deposits have been located.

Samuel Okello, LCV Chairman of Kalaki District, also called for a comprehensive sensitization campaign to help local populations understand the potential impacts and opportunities the discovery of oil could bring.

Sara Tyan, the Assistant RDC of Amolatar, and Isaac Oceng Otim, Assistant RDC of Dokolo, both stressed the importance of involving all local leaders in the sensitization efforts to ensure widespread understanding and participation in the process.

Tony Sserubiri, the Principal Geologist from the Ministry of Energy, provided an update on the ongoing mineral survey, assuring leaders that the government is actively working to assess the full extent of the region’s mineral deposits.