Muthomi Ireri
The non-profit organization Climate Rights International (CRI) is calling on banks, financial institutions, and insurers to withdraw support for Uganda’s Kingfisher oil project. CRI has raised serious concerns over widespread human rights abuses and environmental damage associated with the project in eastern Uganda.
In a 156-page report published on Monday, September 2, CRI detailed its findings, which are based on 98 interviews. The report highlights troubling issues, including “pressure and intimidation” experienced by families from officials of TotalEnergies’s Ugandan subsidiary and its subcontractors, who allegedly coerced them into accepting compensation that was insufficient to purchase replacement land.
The report also reveals alarming instances of sexual violence, with “numerous women” reporting that they were subjected to threats, intimidation, or coercion by soldiers operating in the Kingfisher project area.
The Kingfisher project is a key component of the East Africa Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP) initiative. It is operated by Chinese company CNOOC on behalf of Joint Venture Partners, including French company TotalEnergies E&P and the Uganda National Oil Company.
Brad Adams, executive director at Climate Rights International, condemned the project, stating, “It is appalling that a project promoted as a source of prosperity for the people of Uganda is instead resulting in violence, intimidation, and poverty.”
Supporters of the Kingfisher project argue that it will drive economic development in landlocked Uganda. At a mid-year media briefing on Uganda’s oil and gas sector, the energy ministry emphasized that balancing economic growth, social development, and environmental conservation remains a top priority.
Dj Vnyash
