CNOOC Uganda Limited

CNOOC Uganda Limited (CUL) is a subsidiary of the China National Offshore Oil Corporation (CNOOC), one of China’s largest oil and gas companies. CUL plays a pivotal role in Uganda’s emerging oil industry, particularly as the operator of the Kingfisher Development Area (KFDA) located in the Kikuube and Hoima districts along the Lake Albert Rift Basin .

Ownership and Partnerships

CUL holds a 28.33% stake in the Kingfisher project. The majority partner is TotalEnergies EP Uganda with 56.67%, while the Uganda National Oil Company (UNOC) owns the remaining 15% . This partnership is part of a broader initiative to develop Uganda’s oil resources, which also includes the Tilenga project operated by TotalEnergies.

Kingfisher Oil Field Development

The Kingfisher oil field is poised to be Uganda’s first commercial oil production site. Drilling operations commenced in January 2023, with production anticipated to begin in 2025 . At peak production, the field is expected to yield approximately 40,000 barrels of crude oil per day .

East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP)

CUL is also a stakeholder in the East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP), a 1,443 km pipeline designed to transport crude oil from Uganda’s oil fields to the Port of Tanga in Tanzania. Once completed, EACOP will be the world’s longest heated crude oil pipeline. TotalEnergies holds a 62% stake in the project, with UNOC and Tanzania’s TPDC each owning 15%, and CNOOC holding 8% .

Environmental and Social Considerations

The Kingfisher project and EACOP have faced criticism from environmental and human rights organizations. Concerns have been raised about potential environmental degradation, displacement of communities, and threats to biodiversity . In response, CUL has implemented safety improvements and engaged with stakeholders to address these issues.

Community Engagement and Development

CUL has initiated various community development programs, including educational scholarships and local infrastructure projects, aiming to contribute positively to the communities in which it operates. These efforts are part of the company’s broader commitment to corporate social responsibility.

Kampala
CNOOC Uganda Limited
Simba Towers
Plot 22, Acacia Avenue
Kololo, Kampala, Uganda
T: +256 204500205