According to a report by *Monitor* on October 20, Uganda's much-anticipated refinery is expected to commence operations by the end of 2029 or early 2030, marking a significant milestone in the country's ambitious vision for developing its oil industry and downstream capacity. Michael Nkumbo Mugwe, General Manager of Uganda Refining Holdings, confirmed this at the "Invest in Uganda" panel during the Africa Energy Week (AEW): 2025 Investment in African Energy event in Cape Town. The refinery will be located in Kabale, Hoima County, and will be jointly advanced by the Uganda National Oil Company (UNOC) and the UAE-based Alfa MBM Investment Company under a $4 billion collaboration. UNOC holds a 40% stake, while Alfa MBM provides 60% of the funding. Mugwe stated, "This project is not limited to fuel production alone; we are also focused on petrochemical products, kerosene, fertilizers, and natural gas processing." "The refinery's design aims to cover the entire value chain." This facility, with a daily processing capacity of 60,000 barrels, will serve as the core of a broader industrial park. The park has already attracted investor interest, with $3 to $4 billion in funding committed to its development, and an additional $1 to $2 billion in potential investments anticipated. Infrastructure projects are also progressing steadily, including new roads, water supply facilities, and a 200-megawatt high-voltage power supply project.
