‘Uganda set to start crude oil exports in October 2026’

Uganda is on course to begin its first crude oil exports in October 2026, marking a major milestone in the country’s long-awaited commercial oil production programme.

The announcement was made by Liu Xiangdong, president of CNOOC Uganda Limited, who said the Kingfisher oil development project has entered its final phase, bringing the country closer to becoming an oil-producing nation.

The Kingfisher project is expected to unlock part of the estimated 1.4 billion barrels of recoverable oil in the Lake Albert Basin.

Speaking during a visit by a high-level government delegation led by Vice President Jessica Alupo and Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja, Liu said construction of the Central Processing Facility (CPF) is 99 per cent complete, while commissioning preparations have reached 74 per cent.

He added that 22 of the planned 31 production wells are ready as the project moves towards first oil. Liu commended the government, joint venture partners, contractors and host communities for supporting the project’s implementation.

He noted that the combined Kingfisher, Tilenga and East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP) projects have attracted investments exceeding $12 billion, making them among the largest industrial developments in Uganda’s history.

Alupo praised CNOOC and its partners for the progress made, describing it as the culmination of years of planning and investment. She reaffirmed the government’s commitment to providing a stable investment environment and the infrastructure needed to support the country’s petroleum industry.

Alupo said achieving first oil remains a national priority, adding that the sector is expected to play a significant role in Uganda’s industrialisation and broader socio-economic transformation.

The delegation also received updates on CNOOC’s national content and community development programmes. Company officials said thousands of Ugandans have participated in project activities, while investments in education, healthcare, agriculture, skills development and access to clean water have benefited communities in the project area.

CNOOC said it remains committed to delivering first oil safely and efficiently while creating long-term value for Uganda and supporting the country’s broader energy and development agenda.

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