Uganda's Petroleum Authority tested emergency response capabilities through a fire simulation at Kabalega Industrial Park in Hoima District. Oil companies joined government agencies in the September 26 coordinated exercise. The drill revealed significant preparedness gaps that require immediate action. Officials must strengthen capacity before commercial oil production begins.
Government agencies lack basic protective equipment and trained personnel for major emergencies. District authorities possess insufficient resources to handle incidents involving thousands of workers. Leadership changes in security positions disrupt sustained capacity-building efforts. Emergency standards need alignment between public agencies and oil companies.
Regular training exercises will continue as Uganda approaches its first oil production. Coordination between private operators and government responders requires substantial improvement. National emergency officials emphasized the need to maintain constant preparedness levels. This effort protects Uganda's petroleum resources from potential disasters.
Government agencies lack basic protective equipment and trained personnel for major emergencies. District authorities possess insufficient resources to handle incidents involving thousands of workers. Leadership changes in security positions disrupt sustained capacity-building efforts. Emergency standards need alignment between public agencies and oil companies.
Regular training exercises will continue as Uganda approaches its first oil production. Coordination between private operators and government responders requires substantial improvement. National emergency officials emphasized the need to maintain constant preparedness levels. This effort protects Uganda's petroleum resources from potential disasters.
