To mitigate problems usually associated with oil production, a new association has been unveiled in Uganda to ensure that local communities in oil rich regions benefit from oil and gas exploration.
The Albertine Graben oil and Gas Districts Association- AGODA comprises of districts that are confirmed by the government to have potential for oil and gas exploration and production.
The districts are Hoima, Kanungu, Nwoya, Rukungiri, Arua, and Kabale.
Some of the key objectives of AGODA include development and utilization of local skills and expertise in the member districts, lobby and advocate for increased opportunities in the oil and gas sector, and to reduce risks associated with oil exploration so that oil is not a curse to the community.
Chrizestom Kayise the chief administrative office for Kanungu, the host district for AGODA further explains that the foundation is grounded on the principles of transparency, mutual respect, and multi-directional accountability that includes local communities and other stake holders.
He points out that AGODA members are well positioned to speak with a clear and defined voice to effectively negotiate for positive, productive, and sustainable outcome with the many stake holders in the relatively new oil sector in Uganda