UNOC oil and gas opportunities are opening new doors for enterprises in Eastern Uganda. The Uganda National Oil Company (UNOC) recently engaged regional businesses at a Supplier Development Workshop in Jinja. The initiative aims to boost local participation in Uganda’s growing oil and gas sector.
Held under the theme “Understanding and Tapping into Oil and Gas Opportunities,” the workshop attracted entrepreneurs, suppliers and business leaders from across the region. Through this engagement, UNOC continues to strengthen the capacity of Ugandan enterprises. As a result, more local firms are better positioned to compete along the oil and gas value chain.
Strengthening Local Capacity in Eastern Uganda
During the opening session, UNOC Chief Operating Officer Samantha Barungi welcomed participants and praised the strong turnout. She emphasized that project success depends on the readiness of local companies and professionals.
“It makes little sense to import capacity from Kampala when capable talent exists in Jinja,” she noted.
Furthermore, Barungi reaffirmed that UNOC exists to serve the people of Uganda. She explained that the national content policy is a deliberate strategy. Specifically, it is designed to deepen Ugandan participation in the oil and gas sector.
She also encouraged attendees to engage actively in the discussions. By asking questions and seeking clarity, businesses can ensure that opportunities remain transparent and fair.
Strategic Positioning and Partnerships
Meanwhile, Chief Corporate Affairs Officer Otoa urged businesses to position themselves strategically. He encouraged them to align with UNOC’s long-term goals and industry standards.
“We are here to support you and grow with you,” he said. In addition, he reaffirmed the company’s commitment to standing alongside local enterprises as they prepare to tap into sector opportunities.
Building Stronger Local Alliances
Equally important, Peter Bintu, Head of National Content, highlighted the value of partnerships among Ugandan firms. According to him, collaboration allows companies to pool resources and share risks. Consequently, they can build the capacity required to compete for larger and more complex contracts.
However, he cautioned that effective partnerships require careful planning. Businesses must conduct thorough due diligence before selecting collaborators. Moreover, they should clearly define roles and responsibilities. Above all, deliberate trust-building is essential for sustainable and high-performing alliances.
Expanding Access to Oil and Gas Opportunities
Overall, the Jinja workshop forms part of broader national efforts. UNOC continues to equip businesses across Uganda with the knowledge and skills they need. As these initiatives expand, more enterprises will benefit from opportunities in Uganda’s oil and gas industry.