'Oil exploitation requires protecting the environmental against damage'

Oil exploration and production in Uganda require extreme caution to prevent environmental damages according to Dr Peter Blomeyer the German ambassador to Uganda. The ambassador noted that Uganda's oil and gas resources have been discovered in environmentally sensitive areas such as forests, national parks, lakes and rivers...[and] cautioned against 'cutting the branch (environment) they are sitting on'...

The ambassador noted that many species of animals, birds, located in these areas are considered threatened by climate change and by human activities. He advised that there should be a good balance between exploitation of oil and protection of the environment.  "We need to realize that there are not only birds, butterflies and other animals living in Uganda but also a fast growing number of people with a growing need for food, shelter, education, health services, infrastructure and jobs," he explained.

"Biodiversity assets are renewable and if managed well can continue to support economic development and human prosperity for an indefinite time. Petroleum resources non-renewable, they will last for maybe 30 years provided they find customers. Renewable energy sources help avoid further climate change," he added.