By Zephania Ikiriza AtwookiPascal Onega Abooki
Hoima, Uganda – Plans are underway to establish an Oil and Gas Museum and Cultural Centres in the Albertine Graben, with feasibility studies already conducted by Strucon Limited on behalf of TotalEnergies EP Uganda and its joint venture partners CNOOC and UNOC.
The project, introduced to district leaders in Hoima, Buliisa, Pakwach and Nwoya in August 2025, aims to boost tourism, cultural preservation, and community livelihoods in Uganda’s oil-rich region.
According to the project brief, the Oil and Gas Museum will feature:
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A 40-seat conference room
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Exhibitions chronicling Uganda’s oil journey from the early 20th century
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Displays of oil and gas artifacts such as rigs, Christmas trees, and crude samples
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Digital galleries and interactive Q&A sessions with experts
In addition, three cultural centres are proposed – one each in Buliisa, Nwoya, and Pakwach – to showcase cultural artifacts, host traditional performances, and provide craft markets and local-style accommodation for cultural tourism.
Districts are expected to contribute by providing land for the facilities. The ideal size is 8–12 acres, though a minimum of 4–5 acres may be accepted. Each district is tasked with proposing three alternative sites, from which one will be selected following technical surveys.
The ownership and management of the facilities will be handed over to local communities and district leadership, supported by a management partner, once construction is approved by the Government of Uganda.
Criteria for site selection include land availability, accessibility, proximity to tourism assets (such as Murchison Falls National Park and Lake Albert), environmental suitability, utilities, community support, and security.
Officials noted that the initiative will not only preserve cultural heritage but also create jobs, attract tourists, and stimulate local economies in the Albertine region.
Physical meetings between project teams and district leaders are scheduled for early October 2025 to discuss land options and the next steps in implementation.
