Kampala
26/10/07
 
US AGENCY TO ASSIST UGANDA ORGANISE HER TRADE IN OIL.

By Leo Odera Omolo
 
The United States of America’s Trade and development Agency, USTDA, has procured a US based Consultant, RKR Enterprise, to explore Uganda’s emerging Petroleum and gas industry.
 
The consultant firm will advise on where the US may ‘’grant assistance’’.
 
‘’Potential actions that could result from the mission include technical assistance programme, feasibility studies, training activities or orientation visits,’’ statement issued by USTDP.
 
‘’The actions are to assist the Ugandan government in achieving its development objectives in the oil and gas sector, adds the statement.
 
According to a report appearing in the Today’s edition of the MONITOR, the US move is consonant with a recent wave of diplomatic overtures extended by China, India and other nations all eager to carve out their share of the unfolding petroleum bounty. Currently, competition is intensifying among the world major powers (US China, India and EU) for the dwindling world petroleum resources.
 
China has particularly upset the energy status quo as its demand for oil to fuel its industrial juggernaut has upped at a terrifying speed.
 
Uganda currently has confirmed production capacity of about 30,000 barrels of oil per day from four exploratory wells that were flow-tested. But exploration activity is continuing in Western Uganda and the two companies – Heritage Oil and Gas and Tullow-Oil which have already made discoveries are optimistic, greater reserves of oil will soon be realized.
 
USTDA said it would assist the Uganda government with technical expertise and training on a ‘’grants basis’’ as it seeks to harness its oil and gas resources.
 
After initial research and information gathering meetings in the United States RKR Enterprise officials are expected to travel to Uganda to meet with public and private sector.
 
Ends.
leooderaomolo@yahoo.com