Oil and gas logistics convention starts today

The clock is ticking. As Uganda draws ever nearer to producing the first commercial barrel of oil in 2020, several stakeholders have started positioning themselves strategically so that they can benefit from the resource.

 

These preparations have culminated into several engagements, such as joint oil and gas convention and regional logistics expo 2017 that is slated to start today.

 

Over 1000 delegates are expected to attend the three day event at the Kampala Serena Hotel organized by the Uganda Freight Forwarders Association (UFFA) and the Uganda Chamber of Mines and Petroleum (UCMP).

 

 The joint event will be held under two themes: "Transforming Uganda into a Regional Logistics Hub - What is your role?"  and "Oil & Gas Doors Open in Uganda"

 

"After the launch of the Front End Engineering Design (FEED) for the crude export pipeline from Hoima to the Port of Tanga in Tanzania and the same for Nwoya and Buliisa exploration areas, the stage is now set for Uganda's oil and gas industry to take off. This presents a huge opportunity for our freight and logistics counterparts," said Elly Karuhanga, the Chairman of the UCMP while announcing the event recently.

 

 "However, for this to be realized, the logistics industry has to attain very high capacity and become extremely efficient. Hence this upcoming forum intends to come up with solutions that will boost our logistics to meet the high demands of the oil sector," he added.

 

Jennifer K Mwijukye, the outgoing chairperson of the UFFA acknowledged the importance that the logistics industry will play in the oil and gas industry.

 

  "Both the logistics and oil industries believe that transforming Uganda into a regional logistics' hub will significantly help the country attain its middle income aspirations," she noted.

 

 "It is only natural that being the main organization in transport and logistics, the UFFA takes the lead in championing the call for Uganda's transformation into a logistics hub."

 

It is expected that about $20b will be invested in this country as a result of oil and gas activities before the actual production date in 2020.