Kampala, Uganda – Ugandan youth activists have once again called for a halt to the construction of the East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP), citing grave environmental risks and growing concerns over human rights abuses.
At a press briefing in Kampala, the activists criticized the government's continued backing of the controversial project, led by TotalEnergies and CNOOC, which will transport crude oil from Uganda’s Albertine region to Tanzania’s port of Tanga. The pipeline, expected to stretch over 1,400 kilometers, threatens ecologically sensitive areas and could displace thousands of residents.
“We are not against development, but it should not come at the expense of human rights and the environment"
one of the youth leaders
Environmental advocates warned that EACOP would contribute massively to global carbon emissions and place already vulnerable communities at even greater risk, especially those in areas prone to climate shocks. They also pointed to the increasing repression of activists, with several youth campaigners having been arrested or harassed during peaceful demonstrations.
The renewed calls follow recent global scrutiny over the pipeline, with international human rights groups urging the Ugandan government and its partners to uphold commitments to climate justice, transparency, and the rights of affected communities.
Activists emphasized the need for inclusive dialogue, investment in sustainable energy, and greater protections for environmental defenders, noting that the pipeline represents a critical test of Uganda’s environmental and democratic credentials.