The Petroleum Authority of Uganda (PAU) has formalized a strategic partnership with Tanzania and Zanzibar in a bid to enhance regional cooperation in the oil and gas sector. A tripartite Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed this week between the PAU, the Petroleum Upstream Regulatory Authority (PURA) of Tanzania, and the Zanzibar Petroleum Regulatory Authority (ZPRA).
The signing ceremony took place at the PAU headquarters in Entebbe, marking a significant step in regional integration and resource governance. Speaking at the event, Lynda Biribonwa, Chairperson of PAU’s Board of Directors, emphasized the region’s vast untapped potential.
“The East African region is one of the most prolific frontier areas for oil and gas exploration,” Biribonwa stated. “By working together, we can leverage shared knowledge, technology, and experience for the good of our countries.”
Focus Areas for Cooperation
The MoU outlines collaboration in key areas including petroleum resource management, cost control, environmental and safety standards, local content development, and technical training. The agreement also promotes mutual support in capacity building and information exchange between the three regulatory bodies.
Biribonwa described the signing as a milestone for regional synergy. “This cooperation will benefit our countries and sister institutions. Together, let us chart a transformative path for East Africa’s petroleum industry.”
From Informal Ties to Structured Partnership
For years, Uganda and Tanzania have maintained close, albeit informal, cooperation in the energy sector—most notably through the East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP), which will transport Uganda’s crude oil to the global market via Tanzanian territory.
Board Chair of PURA, Halfani R. Halfani, said the time had come to turn that informal relationship into an institutional framework. “This MoU gives us a platform to share best practices and attract sustainable investment to the region.”
ZPRA Managing Director Muhammed S. echoed these sentiments, highlighting the shared benefits of regional unity. “Pooling our expertise allows us to learn from each other and move the industry forward together.”
Towards Deeper Regional Integration
Charles J. Sangweni, Director General of PURA, revealed that talks for the MoU began nearly a year ago. He views the agreement as a stepping stone toward deeper collaboration, including future partnerships with other East African nations.
“This MoU is about strengthening our bonds, building capacity, and promoting the exchange of vital technical knowledge,” said Sangweni. “We’re optimistic about broadening this cooperation—possibly beginning with Kenya.”
As part of their visit, the Tanzanian and Zanzibari delegations will tour Uganda’s oil installations in the Albertine Graben, a key hub as Uganda prepares for its long-anticipated First Oil.
The spirit of the agreement was best summed up with a Swahili saying frequently cited at the ceremony: “Umoja ni nguvu” – unity is strength.