Energy Policy & Regulation

The Energy Convention 2025, held at Serena Hotel in Kampala, brought together key stakeholders from government, the private sector, civil society, international partners, and financiers under the theme “Integrating Oil, Gas, and Renewable Energy for a Sustainable Future.” Organized by the Uganda Chamber of Energy and Minerals (UCEM) in collaboration with the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development, the convention served as a vital platform for strategic dialogue aimed at accelerating the country’s energy transformation.

A major highlight was the focus on local content in Uganda’s oil and gas sector. While 80% of companies in the National Supplier Database are Ugandan and 53% of 2024 contracts have been awarded to local firms, calls were made to increase inclusivity and transparency in procurement. Stakeholders urged the government to fast-track the establishment of the National Content Fund to support local SMEs and enable them to scale up within the energy industry.

The convention also emphasized Uganda’s energy transition strategy, with more than $20 billion in oil revenues expected to finance the shift toward renewables. However, concerns were raised over limited public awareness of climate finance, carbon trading, and the implications of energy reforms—especially in rural areas. Regional trade challenges between Uganda and Tanzania were also spotlighted, with participants calling for streamlined logistics, removal of non-tariff barriers, and improved infrastructure to support cross-border energy movement.

Environmental compliance and access to energy were key areas of concern. While regulatory agencies were recognized for oversight in oil exploration zones, there was consensus that stronger ESG enforcement and transparency are urgently needed. The lack of electricity access in rural areas—where only 19% of households are connected—was identified as a major constraint to development. In addition, with over 88% of Ugandans still relying on biomass for cooking, delegates urged national planners to prioritize clean cooking solutions equally alongside electricity expansion.