Uganda Oil Pipeline Project Advances Skills Training Ahead of 2026 Production

Uganda is preparing for first oil production in July 2026. The East African Crude Oil Pipeline project is emphasizing skills transfer and local workforce development.

During the third Oil and Gas Skills Expo 2026 at Makerere University, the East African Crude Oil Pipeline reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring Ugandans acquire transferable skills. Andrew Mafabi said universities and vocational institutions should redesign curricula with a stronger focus on practical training.

"The challenge for us as nationalists is ensuring our education system remains relevant," Mafabi said. " Mafabi noted that while Ugandans possess required technical skills, exposure to real-world operations remains essential. He said 141 trainees were taken abroad to acquire advanced skills for operating the pipeline.

Uganda's local content strategy has produced more than 21,000 direct jobs in the sector, with 86% occupied by Ugandans. Over 50,000 indirect jobs and 140,000 induced jobs have also been generated. More than 14,000 Ugandans have received training and certification through partnerships involving government agencies, oil companies, and institutions such as Uganda Petroleum Institute Kigumba and Busoga Polytechnic Institute.

Certifications including OPITO, EICTB, and City & Guilds are helping position Ugandan professionals for international labor markets.

Ernest said the Expo theme reflects Uganda's current stage of industrial development. As the sector transitions from heavy infrastructure construction to commercial oil production, employment levels may gradually decline. Skills such as plumbing, electrical installation, welding, scaffolding, and heavy goods vehicle driving are transferable to construction, aviation, manufacturing, and hospitality industries.

Skills acquired in oil and gas are also relevant to renewable energy and green industries.