The Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development has commenced the exploration of Petroleum along the Kyoga basin in Kiryandongo District. This development was revealed by during the stakeholder sensitization meeting held on Wednesday January 17, 2024 at Kiryandongo District headquarters.

According to Joshua Suubi a senior Geologist at Ministry of Energy, the Kyoga basin has been identified with conditions for accumulation of hydro carbons which is a potential for oil and gas exploration. Suubi noted that the government of Uganda is intensifying petroleum exploration so as to effectively utilize the infrastructure established such as the East African Crude Oil Pipeline which has costed Uganda huge sums of money.

The exploration exercise will involve data and sample collection which will be used to market the areas within the Kyoga basin to potential investors in the oil and gas industry globally.

Edith Aliguma Adyeri the District chairman welcomed the development and thanked the Ministry of Energy officials for engaging the local leaders who represent the interests of the communities. She added that the engagement will help leaders to provide right information and prepare the community for exploration activities.

Aliguma also pledged to prepare the youths and the communities to tap into the oil and gas sector as they await the exploration findings.

Dan Muganga the RDC Kiryandongo called upon the Ministry of Energy to continuously engage the local leaders and communities so as to avoid resistance and security threats. He added that the proceeds from oil and gas if discovered will help in addressing local and national concerns.

The exploration activities are expected to end in four years. However, the commencement of petroleum exploration is not a confirmation of existence of oil and gas in the Kyoga basin.