Uganda Partners with UAE Firm to Build Oil Refinery and Boost Skilled Workforce in Energy Sector
Uganda is strengthening its national oil strategy by launching a domestic crude oil refinery to complement its export-oriented projects.
A new agreement with a UAE-based company will lead to the construction of this key facility, with ownership shared between the foreign investor and the Uganda National Oil Company (UNOC).
Construction is expected to commence soon, and the refinery is projected to become operational within a few years.
The project is a cornerstone of a broader development plan centered around major oil fields in Uganda’s western region.
It will serve as the foundation for a new industrial hub dedicated to petrochemical production and logistics.
To ensure the sustainability and growth of the sector, Uganda has also launched a national training initiative aimed at developing local technical expertise.
The program, currently underway in the capital, is being led by international experts and is focused on equipping Ugandans with the specialized skills required in the oil and gas industry.
Trainees are gaining hands-on experience at a central site responsible for stabilizing crude oil before it enters the export pipeline system.
This facility plays a crucial role in Uganda’s upstream operations and provides a real-world learning environment.
This dual strategy—investing in infrastructure and human capital—reflects Uganda’s commitment to becoming a fully integrated player in the global energy value chain.
By fostering local talent and building domestic processing capacity, the country is positioning itself for long-term energy and economic resilience.
