Uganda announces oil production start for end of 2026
Ugandan authorities announced the start of oil extraction by the end of 2026 during a ceremony at the Kingfisher site, operated by Chinese company CNOOC. Initial output is expected at 28,000 barrels per day, rising to 40,000 at full capacity. The oil has been named 'Pearl Sweet', and the project has faced criticism from environmental and civil society groups over displacement and environmental impacts.
Why it matters: This relates to the theme of energy geopolitics, as the project involves Chinese and French companies and raises questions about resource extraction and its social and environmental costs.