"Government of Uganda announces seven bidders for new oil licences – Global Witness response"

The Uganda government should be commended for publishing a list of seven bidders for its first round of oil licences, said Global Witness today. However, the organisation cited continued concerns about environmental risks posed by oil exploration to unique habitats including the Virunga World Heritage site, and the suitability of some of the oil companies under consideration.

“Oil contracts can last for 30 years or more, and oil exploration can do irreversible damage to both people and environment.  So choosing the right companies is vital, especially with operations taking place in such sensitive areas... The Virunga area is one of the most bio-diverse on earth. Oil drilling here would be a disaster for the people and animals that depend on it. Uganda and Congo should make a deal with UNESCO to protect Virunga from oil activities” said Boden.

The government should publish the final contracts so that people can see the deal the government has signed on their behalf and the social and environmental protections they contain.