news 23 August 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Middle East Conflict Delays Uganda's First Oil Production
Uganda's target for commencing commercial oil production has been pushed back due to disruptions in equipment deliveries stemming from the escalating conflict in the Middle East. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/middle-east-conflict-disrupts-equipment-deliveries-delays-uganda-first-oil-5568890
Uganda’s much-anticipated “First Oil” milestone, initially slated for July 31, has been delayed. The Petroleum Authority of Uganda (PAU) attributes this setback primarily to difficulties in transporting specialized equipment from the Middle East, a region currently experiencing heightened conflict.
Ernest Rubondo, PAU’s Chief Executive Officer, explained that while project work has continued, the arrival of crucial components faced significant interruptions. Many of these specialized items are sourced from the Middle East, and some were already en route when the conflict intensified, leading to delays at ports and along shipping routes.
Some equipment that was scheduled to reach Uganda in February and March had to be rerouted. Oil companies have since been working to secure alternative transport methods. TotalEnergies E&P Uganda, for instance, chartered vessels specifically to expedite the delivery of some of these delayed materials, with initial shipments already arriving.
The remaining essential equipment, including highly technical parts for metering systems, electrical instrumentation, and telecommunication systems, is expected by the end of September. These components are critical for monitoring and controlling the production process.
Once this specialized equipment is delivered and installed, a new firm date for “First Oil” will be established by the government and the involved oil companies. Uganda discovered commercially viable oil deposits in the Albertine Graben in the mid-2000s, with major projects including TotalEnergies’ Tilenga and CNOOC’s Kingfisher. The crude oil is planned for export via the East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP).
This delay in “First Oil” comes as the broader petroleum infrastructure, including the EACOP which is reportedly 91% complete, moves towards its final stages. The arrival of the remaining specialized equipment is now a pivotal step before Uganda can commence commercial oil production.
Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)