Uganda is opening a new chapter in Africa’s energy sector as it prepares for its first oil exports in December 2026, with production expected to reach 230,000 barrels per day over the next three years.
The milestone represents a promising development for Africa’s energy landscape, adding new production capacity to the continent while creating opportunities for investment, infrastructure development, trade and regional economic growth.
To begin with, production will start at the Kingfisher oil field, operated by China’s CNOOC (China National Offshore Oil Corporation). The field is expected to produce about 25,000 barrels per day from December, before increasing to approximately 40,000 barrels per day within six months.
At the same time, Uganda is preparing to bring its Pearl Sweet crude to international markets. The medium-to-heavy, low-sulfur crude is expected to be benchmarked against Brent crude, giving Uganda a strong foundation as it enters the international oil trade.
Furthermore, the selection of international oil trader Vitol Group to market the crude creates an important commercial connection between Uganda’s growing petroleum industry and global buyers.
EACOP opens a new energy corridor for East Africa
A major part of this progress is the East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP), which is strengthening energy connectivity between Uganda and Tanzania.
The approximately 1,500-kilometre pipeline will connect Uganda’s oil-producing region with Tanga Port in Tanzania, giving the landlocked country an efficient route to international markets.
Importantly, EACOP will have the capacity to transport up to 230,000 barrels of crude per day, matching Uganda’s long-term production ambition.
The $5.6 billion project brings together TotalEnergies, Uganda National Oil Company, Tanzania Petroleum Development Corporation and China’s CNOOC, reflecting significant investment in East Africa’s energy infrastructure.
New opportunities for Africa’s energy economy
Looking ahead, Uganda’s energy growth is expected to accelerate further with the Tilenga project, operated by TotalEnergies and scheduled to begin production in the first quarter of 2027.
Together, Kingfisher and Tilenga will provide a strong foundation for Uganda’s emerging petroleum industry and support the development of its estimated 6.5 billion barrels of crude reserves.
As production expands, Uganda’s oil sector could generate new opportunities across infrastructure, logistics, transportation, trade and related services. At the regional level, stronger links between Uganda and Tanzania could also contribute to deeper economic integration across East Africa.
For Africa, Uganda’s entry into oil production adds fresh momentum to the continent’s energy ambitions and demonstrates the potential of African natural resources to support investment, industrial development and regional economic cooperation.
With its first exports approaching, Uganda is opening a promising new chapter in East Africa’s energy story,creating opportunities for growth at home while strengthening the region’s connection to international markets.
