The Ugandan Energy and Mineral Development Minister, Ruth Nankabirwa Ssentamu, asserts that the government will not be swayed by activist pressure to halt the East Africa Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP) construction. This stance comes in response to a recent report by GreenFaith, accusing TotalEnergies of disrespecting graves along the proposed 1,443-km-long underground oil pipeline.
“Resolute Commitment to EACOP Project Amidst Activist Criticism”
In the report titled “As If Nothing Is Sacred,” TotalEnergies is accused of inadequate compensation to families with graves along the pipeline route. Minister Nankabirwa, speaking at the launch of the 19th Annual Energy and Minerals Week, emphasized that the project has faced blackmail since its inception in 2013 but assured that the government remains focused.
| Project Funding Status | Total Project Cost: USD 3.04 billion |
|---|---|
| Funds Secured | 40% (Approx. USD 11.449 trillion) |
Despite calls for a halt by affected families and joint reports from Uganda and Tanzania clerics, Nankabirwa reaffirmed that Uganda’s first oil production is progressing as planned, with drilling underway at Kingfisher and Tilenga oil fields.
GreenFaith’s report detailed emotional and spiritual trauma experienced by affected families. The company, according to the report, has violated international standards for reburial of human remains and neglected best practices.
| Project Details | |
|---|---|
| Project Worth | USD 3.6 million |
| Villages Affected | 171 across 10 districts |
Efforts to obtain a response from TotalEnergies have been unsuccessful, but the report calls for reimbursement to affected communities and respectful relocation of graves.
In February, religious leaders raised concerns about inadequate compensation and environmental issues caused by the EACOP project. Despite the European Parliament’s resolution against Uganda’s oil projects, a later decision by the ACP-EU Assembly overturned the resolution.