The Petroleum Authority of Uganda (PAU) has formalised a partnership with the Zanzibar Petroleum Regulatory Authority (ZPRA) and the Petroleum Upstream Regulatory Authority (PURA) of Tanzania, through the signing of a tripartite Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). This agreement aims to enhance collaboration and knowledge exchange within the East African oil and gas sector.
The ceremony, held in Entebbe, saw leaders from all three regulatory bodies come together. Ms Lynda Biribonwa, Chairperson of the Board of Directors at PAU, highlighted the significance of regional cooperation. She pointed out that “the East African region is one of the most prolific frontier areas for Oil and Gas exploration and development”. Biribonwa stressed that collaboration among regulators is “paramount to leverage on the existing expertise and resources” within the technologically driven, capital-intensive sector.
The MOU covers key areas such as petroleum resource management, cost monitoring, health and safety, national content development, and capacity building. Biribonwa welcomed the signing of the MOU, noting, “I am happy that we can sign this MoU and take forward these areas of cooperation for the mutual benefit of our countries and sister institutions.”
Halfani R. Halfani, Board Chair of Tanzania’s PURA, reflected on the long-standing informal relationship between Uganda and Tanzania in the oil and gas sector. He emphasised the importance of formalising this relationship to ensure sustainability, stating, “This MoU will facilitate sharing best practices, so that the region can maintain the capability to bring in investment in the region.”
Muhammed S. Said, Managing Director of ZPRA, stressed the collective benefits of the partnership, explaining that by “putting all of our resources together, we can all learn from each other and see how we take the industry forward for the benefit of all.”
Charles J. Sangweni, Director General of PURA, revealed that discussions for this MOU began a year ago. He anticipates that the MOU “will strengthen our bonds” and help address “pertinent issues regarding exchanging data and sharing experiences through capacity building of our technical teams.” Sangweni also expressed hope for expanding regional cooperation, potentially including agreements with other East African nations, beginning with Kenya.
The MOU is expected to drive shared growth and expertise, reflecting the regional proverb, “Umoja ni nguvu” – unity is strength. The visiting delegation will also tour Uganda’s oil and gas operational areas in the Albertine Graben, gaining insights as Uganda prepares for First Oil.
As Biribonwa concluded, “Together, let us chart a transformative path forward for the petroleum industry in East Africa.”
