On June 12, 2023, Total Energies/Uganda handed over 105 resettlement houses and title deeds to people whose residences were impacted by the Tilenga project in Buliisa, Hoima and Kikuube regions. This initiative marks a crucial step in the management of the social repercussions of the project, according to Philippe Groueix, Managing Director of Total Energies.
Each eligible household benefited from a resettlement plan developed in consultation with the Chief Government Assessor. The houses, built on land selected by residents and paid for by the company, offer options from 2 to 4 bedrooms. These houses are equipped with kitchens, VIP latrines, 5000 liter rainwater collection tanks, solar lighting, landscaping and greenery in the outdoor areas.
Uganda’s Minister of Energy, Mines and Sustainable Development, Ruth Nankabirwa, welcomed the progress made in the resettlement of those affected by the Tilenga project. She stressed the importance of these measures to “preserve the dignity and well-being of people forced to leave their original residence”.
Total Energies is committed to supporting people who have been resettled by implementing community development programs, vocational training, employment opportunities and economic development initiatives. Total Energies managers aim to build the capacity of local communities and improve their livelihoods.
The Tilenga project, which aims to exploit Uganda’s petroleum resources responsibly, offers tangible economic development opportunities for the country. Total Energies is committed to acting in a socially responsible and sustainable manner by minimizing negative impacts on local communities and improving their well-being.
The handing over of these houses and title deeds marks a significant step in the implementation of the Tilenga project. The company will therefore continue to work closely with local communities and relevant authorities to ensure a transparent and fair resettlement process. The objective is to ensure that the social impacts of the project benefit the local communities as much as possible.
This achievement is encouraging, because in Africa, when it comes to oil and gas projects, indigenous communities are not always prioritized in investment decisions. Indeed, these continent dwellers often experience the adverse effects of these projects, such as climate change, loss of traditional livelihoods, environmental pollution and land degradation..
The interest of large companies is often motivated by the high profit they can derive from it, without really considering the long-term consequences for local communities. It is therefore important that companies take into account the social and environmental impacts of their development projects.
We should be pleased that Total Energies takes its social and environmental responsibility seriously by improving the living conditions of local populations and by carrying out its projects by meeting the needs of communities. This type of measure must be encouraged so that more investors follow suit while respecting sustainable development.