The East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP) Limited unveiled the EACOP Community Road Safety Project at Hotel Africana, Kampala, which is a significant initiative that will fast-track Uganda’s oil and gas sector.
In partnership with the Safe Way Right Way (SWRW) Initiative, the project aims to build safer communities along the EACOP corridor.
General Edward Katumba Wamala, the Minister of Works and Transport, who was the chief guest at the event, highlighted the importance of road safety to regional growth and the need for road-user behaviour change through mass sensitisation and enforcement collaboration. “As we uplift our communities through infrastructural development, let us collaborate to ensure their safety through safe roads,” Katumba said, noting that this project will fast-track the oil and gas sector.
He noted that the launch of this project is a demonstration of a shared responsibility by EACOP and all stakeholders to commit to the safety of all road users.
Speaking at the launch, Irene Namuyiga, the General Manager SWRW Initiative, steered the discussion on the National Road Safety Action Plan, focusing on safe and sustainable transport systems, inclusive mobility and raising awareness about road safety.
According to Namuyiga, there is a need for stakeholders in the oil and gas sector to put emphasis on the importance of instilling road safety cultures in children, training of police officers on inclusive road safety and training of journalists to ensure better reporting on road safety. She noted that the project will implement various measures to ensure road safety, including:
Road rangers to monitor trucks transporting pipes to EACOP sites, putting in place journey management plans to ensure safe transportation of goods, prohibit night driving, respect speed limit, plus giving safe drivers incentives to encourage them to keep up the spirit.
Collaboration and Awareness
The project launch highlights the importance of collaboration among stakeholders, including government agencies, development partners, local leaders, researchers, and the media.
In light of this, the discussion also emphasised the need for: instilling road safety cultures in children by educating them about road safety, training police officers to enhance their skills in inclusive road safety, plus training journalists to improve their reporting on road safety issues
Impact on Uganda’s Oil and Gas Sector
According to Lawrence Ssempagi, the Regulatory Compliance Lead, EACOP, the Community Road Safety Project will have a significant impact on Uganda’s oil and gas sector by reducing accidents through minimising risks associated with oil and gas transportation, enhancing safety by protecting communities along the EACOP corridor, promoting sustainable development, plus supporting Uganda’s economic growth through safe and responsible oil and gas operations.
The EACOP Community Road Safety Project is a demonstration of EACOP’s commitment to safety and responsible development. By working together with stakeholders, EACOP can ensure the safety of all road users and contribute to Uganda’s economic growth.
This initiative will undoubtedly fast-track Uganda’s oil and gas sector, promoting sustainable development and enhancing the country’s reputation as a responsible oil-producing nation.