'Museveni, Xi bilateral relationship at its best ever'

KIKUUBE - The bilateral relationship between President Yoweri Museveni of Uganda and his counterpart, Xi Jinping is currently at its best ever.

The Chinese ambassador to Uganda, Zhang Lizhong, says that with the increased cooperation between the two countries, many Chinese companies have continued to invest in Uganda, especially in the areas of agro-industry, manufacturing, Information Computer Technology, oil and gas, green energy and industrial parks.

He said that by 2024, Chinese enterprises had invested over sh2.9 trillion ($800m) in Uganda, creating thousands of jobs for citizens.  

The Chinese ambassador to Uganda Zhang Lizhong, addressing journalists at Kingfisher Oil Fields. Middle is Liu Xiang Dong, the President of CNOOC and Amiinah Bukenya, the CNOOC head of corporate affairs. (Credit: Eddie Ssejjoba)

The ambassador made the remarks on Wednesday, March 12, 2025, at the Kingfisher Community Youth Drawing Competition organised by CNOOC at Kyangwali Farm adjacent to the Kingfisher Oil Field in Kikuube district where he was the guest of honour.

The competition, organized by the China National Offshore Oil Corporation (CNOOC) attracted 30 students from 16 secondary schools from Kikuube, Hoima City, and Hoima District.

The competition, held under the theme, “A beautiful balance of heritage and modernization” was won by Apronale Murungi, a Senior Six student at St. James Secondary School. It was attended by the ambassador’s wife, Lin Yaqiong who was part of the organising committee and the CNOOC President, Liu Xiangdong. Several other students won in various categories and were handed prestigious prizes. 

The winning art piece.

The ambassador commended the government of Uganda for creating an enabling environment for foreign enterprises to join hands in making their contribution to social and economic transformation of Uganda.

He cited CNOOC, with the vision of “energy for a better future” and their goal of implementing high-quality projects, building first-class teams and promoting China-Uganda friendship. He said after 12 years, CNOOC had become one of the largest Chinese investors in Uganda.

“We are looking forward to the first barrel of oil as soon as possible right here at Kingfisher Oil Field,” he stated.   

The overall winner of the Kingfisher Community Youth Drawing Competition, Apronale Murungi from St. James SS, S6.

Addressing the participants, the CNOOC boss said, “I also extend my deepest appreciation to our partners, local schools, and, most importantly, the participating students and their families. Together, we are nurturing creativity, fostering knowledge, strengthening mutual understanding, and reaffirming our commitment to “Energy for a Better Future”.

According to Liu, this year’s theme highlights the harmony between tradition and progress and “reminds us that while progress brings new opportunities, our traditions and culture remain invaluable”.

“As the oil and gas industry drives modernization, it is crucial to preserve our cultural identity, history, and environment,” he stated.

He said the competition challenges young artists to illustrate how development and tradition can coexist, ensuring a future where innovation respects and enhances the rich heritage.

“CNOOC Uganda Limited is committed to education and talent development in Uganda, and this is evident through various initiatives including, investing in key infrastructure projects,” he explained. He cited projects such as the construction of the Escarpment Road, providing motivational top-up salaries for teachers at Buhuka Primary School where Kingfisher Oil Field is located. Other projects include recognising excellence through Best Performer Awards, offering CNOOC Uganda Limited International Scholarships and Heavy Goods Vehicle training programs.

“These efforts reflect our strong belief in the power of education and talent cultivation to drive meaningful progress,” he explained.

_____________________

The competition, organized by the China National Offshore Oil Corporation (CNOOC) attracted 30 students from 16 secondary schools from Kikuube, Hoima City, and Hoima District. (All Photos by Eddie Ssejjoba)