EACOP Hosts National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) for Field Visit, Showcasing Environmental and Social Commitments

In a collaborative effort to ensure adherence to environmental and social responsibility standards, the East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP) took the initiative to organize a field visit for the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) to key project sites in Uganda. Led by Deputy Managing Director John Bosco Habumugisha, the EACOP team facilitated the visit to provide NEMA with firsthand insights into project implementation and compliance.

The primary purpose of the visit was to evaluate the implementation of Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) commitments made by EACOP. The delegation observed replacement houses and witnessed the Livelihood Restoration Program in action, which included demonstration gardens and support for Project Affected Persons (PAPs). These initiatives underscored EACOP’s proactive approach to mitigating the project’s impact on local communities.

Accompanied by board members and executive director Dr. Barirega Akankwasah, the NEMA delegation explored various critical sites along the EACOP route in Uganda. The itinerary included visits to the Main Camp and pipe yards, where early civil works were underway. A significant highlight of the visit was the Kabajjo Memorial School, a testament to EACOP’s commitment to corporate social responsibility.

Prof. James Okot-Okumu, chairperson of the NEMA board, commended EACOP for organizing the visit and emphasized its importance in fostering transparency and accountability in project execution. The collaboration between EACOP and NEMA reflects a shared commitment to upholding environmental and social standards.

During discussions, John Habumugisha provided updates on the compensation process, revealing that 3,660 individuals affected by pipeline activities have already been compensated. This reaffirmed EACOP’s dedication to ensuring fair treatment and compensation for affected stakeholders.

Overall, the field visit organized by EACOP for NEMA served as a platform to showcase the progress made in fulfilling Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) commitments and demonstrated tangible efforts to uphold environmental and social responsibilities. By fostering collaboration between regulatory bodies and project operators, such initiatives contribute to the sustainable development of energy infrastructure while prioritizing the well-being of communities and ecosystems.