TotalEnergies EP Uganda (TEPU), in partnership with the Petroleum Authority of Uganda, convened the inaugural Tilenga Social Performance Forum at the Sheraton Kampala Hotel under the theme “Catalysing Sustainable Development: Sharing Value and Creating Impact.”
The forum provided a strategic platform for TotalEnergies EP Uganda to present its objectives and progress in maximizing the socio-economic benefits of the Tilenga Project for host communities and the broader Ugandan population.
Key achievements highlighted included the employment of over 9,000 Ugandans, of whom 3,700 are drawn directly from host communities.
Further, the company reported procurement of goods and services worth USD 31.3million from local suppliers, and the empowerment of more than 10,000 farmersthrough agricultural development programmes. Significant strides have also been made in education, with hundreds of scholarships awarded and skills training providedto over 2,000 Ugandans. Community infrastructure has been enhanced through improvements in schools and health centres, alongside expanded access to cleanenergy and safe water.
Speaking at the event, Philippe Groueix, the General Manager of TotalEnergies EP Uganda, emphasised that the company’s approach to delivering the Tilenga Project is guided by TotalEnergies’ global framework, which integrates environmental conservation, social inclusion, and economic empowerment.
He reaffirmed the company’s commitment to ensuring that the project generates meaningful and lasting benefits for Ugandans through strong partnerships and collaborative efforts.
“Economic empowerment is central to our vision for responsble oil and gasdevelopment. Through targeted investments in vocational training, modern housing, healthcare, and livelihoods, we are enabling communities to build sustainable futures,” Groueix said.
In addition, the general manager highlighted that this transformation is driven by strong partnerships with the government and with the people themselves, saying, “The progress in regions like Buliisa is a clear indicator of what’s possible. As Uganda prepares to enter the production phase next year, we remain fully committed to inclusive growth, transparency, and long-term national impact.”
Dr Joseph Kobusheshe, the Director of Environment, Health and Safety, Petroleum Authority of Uganda, lauded the forum as a timely and strategic initiative that reinforces the sector’s commitment to responsible development.
“The industry’s dedication to completing oil and gas projects responsibly, while upholding the rights and welfare of host communities and protecting the environment, is demonstrated by this first Social Performance Forum. More than 10,000 households are gaining access to agricultural programs and livelihood restoration, modern resettlement homes have been constructed, and over 99% of project-affected individuals have already received compensation. These successes demonstrate our commitment to making sure that the growth of oil and gas creates long-term opportunities for Ugandans,” he remarked.
The State Minister for Energy, Sidronius Okaasai Opolot, while speaking on behalf of Hon. Ruth Nankabirwa, the Minister of Energy and Mineral Development, commended the initiative and emphasised the importance of collaboration to ensure that oil and gas development delivers tangible benefits to Ugandans.
“As a government, our position has always been clear and unwavering. The discovery of oil and gas is an opportunity for national transformation. We are resolute in managing this resource responsibly, transparently, and sustainably. We believe that development must be a shared enterprise, where the benefits of progress are not only distributed equitably but where the process of growth itself is inclusive and respectful of human dignity and environmental integrity,” he said.
The event brought together government officials, contractors, stakeholders from project host communities, and development partners to exchange insights, foster collaboration, and explore innovative approaches to community development.
It concluded with a wards ceremony recognising contractors who demonstrated excellence in community development, particularly in areas such as local investment, workforce training, sub-contractor management, stakeholder engagement, and effective grievance resolution.
The launch of the Tilenga Social Performance Report and a photo exhibition showcased the tangible socio-economic benefits and value created in Uganda as thecountry progresses toward first oil. This milestone underscores TotalEnergies EPUganda’s continued commitment to strengthening partnerships and supporting long-term, inclusive development in the communities where it operates.
About TotalEnergies in Uganda
TotalEnergies has been present in Uganda since 1955 through its marketing operations and has more200 stations countrywide. TotalEnergies EP Uganda is an upstream affiliate which is leading thedevelopment activities towards production in the Tilenga project area – Contract Area 1 (CA-1) andLicense Area 2 North (LA-2N) within the Albertine Region.
About TotalEnergies
TotalEnergies is a global multi-energy company that produces and markets energies: oil and biofuels, natural gas and green gases, renewables and electricity. Our more than 100,000 employees are committed to energy that is ever more affordable, cleaner, reliable, and accessible to as many people as possible. Active in more than 130 countries, TotalEnergies puts sustainable development in all its dimensions at the heart of its projects and operations to contribute to the well-being of people.
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