East Africa’s oil and gas industry is at a critical juncture, with countries seeking ways to translate energy resources into long-term economic stability while ensuring sustainability. The upcoming East African Petroleum Conference and Exhibition (EAPCE’25) will focus on local participation, responsible resource use, and balancing economic growth with environmental concerns.
Governments in the region are prioritizing local content policies to ensure that businesses and workers benefit from the energy sector. Tanzania and Uganda have implemented strict regulations requiring international firms to source services locally, while Kenya is expanding support for small and medium enterprises (SMEs). Rwanda, still in the early stages of exploration, is positioning itself as a center for petroleum-related training. Investing in skills development, particularly in engineering and geophysics, is seen as crucial for reducing dependence on foreign expertise.
East African nations are exploring strategies to ensure petroleum revenues contribute to long-term development beyond the energy sector. Learning from models like Norway’s sovereign wealth fund, Tanzania enacted an oil revenue management law in 2015, and Uganda is drafting similar frameworks. Diversification is a key agenda at EAPCE’25, with discussions on using oil wealth to boost industries such as manufacturing, agriculture, and technology.
With growing climate concerns, East Africa faces the challenge of developing fossil fuels while committing to greener energy alternatives. Environmental regulations in Tanzania and Kenya require oil firms to minimize ecological harm and invest in carbon offset programs. Uganda’s Lake Albert project integrates wildlife conservation, and Rwanda is ensuring its emerging petroleum sector aligns with sustainable growth initiatives. Engaging local communities through employment and infrastructure projects remains a priority.
EAPCE’25 serves as a platform for policymakers, investors, and industry leaders to align their strategies and promote regional cooperation. Tanzania’s Ministry of Energy emphasizes the importance of unified policies and sustainable investment frameworks to ensure petroleum wealth contributes to long-term prosperity. The discussions and decisions at EAPCE’25 are expected to shape East Africa’s energy landscape for years to come.