Pipeline Details Due in November
Contractors of the long-awaited oil pipeline extension project from Eldoret to Kampala are expected to announce the commencement of the works by the end of November, sources said this week, writes our Reporter.
The sources explained that because of the complexity of the project, some previous announcements of the impending start of the construction works of the 350km pipeline by Tamoil Uganda have turned out to be over-simplified and unjustified. This time, the sources added, it appeared to be the “real thing.”
“Teams of the energy ministry personnel are now sensitizing people along the Eldoret-Kampala oil pipeline route before surveying and valuing the land for compensation,” the sources said on Monday.
Earlier industry sources explained that the pipeline process was delayed by violence following the disputed elections in Kenya last December.
They also said there were numerous legal and project agreements that needed joint resolution before any major undertaking could be effected.
A joint government statement made in November 2006 said they expected the laying of the pipeline to start in the second half of 2007. This was expected to be completed within 12 months. This, however, not happened.
By Deborah Allen
Gorilla trekking safari News Reporter