By Edward Byamukama
Over 800 Tilenga Project affected persons under Resettlement Action Plans (RAPs) 2-5 in Buliisa, Hoima and Kikuube Districts, on Tuesday received income generating starter packs at an event held at Kibambura playgrounds in Buliisa district.
This was to commemorate the conclusion of the land acquisition, and resettlement activities. To date, 5,553 (99.5%) PAPs have been fully compensated, including 235 physically resettled PAPs in compliance with national laws and international standards.
Total Energies EP Uganda has provided transitional support and livelihood restoration initiatives to PAPs, designed to restore and enhance their livelihoods. Through these initiatives, PAPs have received Agricultural inputs and support services for 3 years to improve their production and income. Additionally, they have benefitted from financial management, business capacity and vocational training.
Speaking at the event, Ms. Mariam Nampeera-Mbowa, the deputy General Manager, TotalEnergies EP Uganda said sustainability is at the heart of their strategy and operations with the wellbeing of communities as a key pillar.
During the event, vocational training beneficiaries received income generating starter packs for various vocations including Electrical Installation, Auto Mechanics, Construction, Plumbing, Hairdressing, Catering, and Computer Skills.
The event was officiated by Phiona Nyamutoro, the Minister of State for Energy and Mineral Development, who also formally handed over the final batch of resettlement houses and land titles. With this, all physically displaced PAPs have been provided with resettlement houses and titles to them.
In her remarks, Nyamutoro noted the provision of start-up kits alongside the resettlement houses symbolizes the government’s and TotalEnergies EP Uganda’s dedication to restoring livelihoods and empowering communities.
