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Kampala, Uganda | THE INDEPENDENT | CNOOC Uganda Limited (CUL) has reaffirmed its commitment to environmental protection and responsible petroleum development as Uganda moves closer to First Oil.
The company joined the Petroleum Authority of Uganda (PAU), Uganda National Oil Company (UNOC), TotalEnergies EP Uganda, EACOP Ltd, Government institutions, local leaders and host communities in Kikuube District on Aug. 13 to commemorate the 2026 Joint Oil and Gas Sector World Environment Day.
Held under the theme “Answering the Climate Call: Driving Responsible Resource Development,” the event focused on environmental protection, climate resilience and sustainable development of Uganda’s petroleum resources.
Activities included a joint tree-planting exercise, commissioning of a solar power system at Nsozi Health Centre III in Kyangwali Sub-County and a community clean- up campaign.
The initiatives were aimed at demonstrating the oil and gas sector’s role in environmental conservation while creating tangible benefits for communities hosting petroleum activities.
Andrew Otuba, speaking on behalf of CNOOC Uganda Vice President Wang Jufeng, said environmental sustainability remains central to the company’s operations as it advances the Kingfisher Development Area towards First Oil.
“At CNOOC Uganda Limited, environmental stewardship is a fundamental principle that guides our operations. As we advance the Kingfisher Development Area towards First Oil, we remain committed to responsible resource development through environmental protection, biodiversity conservation, efficient resource utilisation and continuous collaboration with Government, our Joint Venture Partners and host communities,” Otuba said.
CNOOC said it continues to implement environmental management measures aimed at reducing operational impacts, protecting biodiversity and improving water and waste management.
The company is also adopting technologies and operational practices aimed at supporting lower emissions, resource efficiency and sustainable development throughout the project lifecycle.
These efforts include strengthening biodiversity planning and monitoring, promoting efficient water use and responsible wastewater management, and improving waste segregation, handling, treatment and disposal.
Community action
Beyond the World Environment Day activities, CNOOC Uganda said it participated in the 2026 Energy Conservation Publicity Week and Low Carbon Day Campaign, which promoted energy-saving practices, environmental awareness and low- carbon operations.
The company has also linked its environmental efforts with community development programmes in education, healthcare, water, agriculture and livelihoods.
These include Best Performers Awards and the International Scholarship Programme, provision of medical equipment to health facilities in host communities and an annual community medical camp.
The company also supports interventions in safe water, agriculture, capacity building and livelihood improvement, which it said are intended to strengthen the socio-economic resilience of communities hosting its operations.
CNOOC said addressing climate and environmental challenges requires collaboration among Government, regulators, joint venture partners, local authorities, communities and other stakeholders.
The company said it will continue working with stakeholders to promote responsible petroleum development while ensuring Uganda derives economic benefits from its oil resources without compromising environmental resilience.
As Uganda prepares for First Oil, CNOOC said it remains committed to developing petroleum resources safely and sustainably while supporting the country’s long- term economic transformation and environmental protection.
