Summary:

• TotalEnergies EP Uganda launched the Industry Enhancement Centre (IEC) to support Ugandan Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in the oil and gas sector. The center provides training, advisory services, and networking opportunities to boost SME participation.

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To bolster the involvement of Ugandan Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in the oil and gas sector, TotalEnergies EP Uganda (TEPU) unveiled the Industry Enhancement Centre (IEC) today (Tuesday).

During the launch event, Mr. Philippe Groueix, the General Manager of TotalEnergies EP Uganda, highlighted that the IEC aims to furnish Ugandan SMEs with sector-specific information, tailored business advice, and training services to augment their expertise within the field. He emphasized that the center will empower SMEs to effectively engage in opportunities across the oil and gas supply chain and other related sectors.

Mr. Groueix emphasized that while the IEC is headquartered in Kampala, it will extend its support to Ugandan SMEs interested in participating in the sector, fostering networking opportunities and knowledge exchanges among IEC members and existing sector stakeholders.

He reiterated TotalEnergies EP Uganda’s commitment to promoting national content and fostering shared value for Uganda’s sustainable development, particularly within the oil and gas sector.

According to Mr. Groueix, the establishment of the IEC is a pivotal step in addressing challenges hindering the full participation of Ugandan suppliers in the oil and gas supply chain, such as sector knowledge, health, safety, and environmental (HSE) practices, certification requirements, technical competencies, and financial modeling.

Dr. Ruth Nankabirwa Ssentamu, the Minister of Energy and Mineral Development, commended the initiative for equipping Ugandan SMEs with the necessary skills and resources to thrive in the oil and gas sector and beyond. She emphasized that fostering local business growth contributes to sustainable economic benefits and positions Ugandan companies as key drivers of national development.

Mr. Jimmy Mugerwa, the Project Director, underscored the significance of the IEC launch for Ugandan companies, stating that it opens up significant potential for supplying goods and services to the oil and gas industry. He highlighted the IEC’s role in addressing capacity gaps that have historically impeded Ugandan businesses from meaningfully participating in the sector and capitalizing on its opportunities.

The establishment of the IEC follows an Industrial Baseline Survey commissioned by TEPU and Joint Venture Partners (JVPs) in 2013, which identified the need for promoting national content and capacity building among Ugandan SMEs to enhance their participation in the sector.

The IEC initiative complements other ongoing efforts by the company to support the development of national content, including skills development, support for educational institutions, and community supplier development programs in the Tilenga project area, covering the oil hosting districts of Buliisa and Nwoya.

TEPU has awarded a three-year contract worth USD 2.3 million to a joint venture comprising Zoramu Consulting Group—a Ugandan company—and Invest in Africa to establish the IEC. The joint venture companies possess industry knowledge and experience in enhancing the capacities and skills of SMEs within similar contexts.