Balancing Climate Change Concerns and The Need for Economic Development in Uganda : A Case Study of the East Africa Crude Oil Pipeline Project

Abstract

In a pivotal moment for Uganda, a nation at the crossroads of economic growth and global climate action, this study unveils the paradoxical challenge presented by the East African Crude Oil Project (EACOP). With the pressing need for economic development juxtaposed against the urgency of climate change mitigation, Uganda's decisions today, particularly in the context of the EACOP, wield profound implications for the nation's future and the broader region. As millions in Africa grapple with the immediate impacts of climate change, including severe droughts, floods, and food insecurity, Uganda stands as a microcosm of the complex interplay between economic aspirations and environmental responsibility.

This research dissects the intricate balance, revealing the incoherence in Uganda's national climate governance and development strategies. Notably, this study examines these challenges in light of Uganda's obligations as a signatory to the Paris Agreement. The Agreement, aligning with Principle 7 of the Rio Declaration, upholds the principles of equity and Common But Differentiated Responsibilities (CBDR) in addressing climate change concerns. It emphasizes an effective yet progressive response to the climate crisis, considering the unique needs of developing countries and their pursuit of sustainable development and poverty eradication.

While navigating the terrain of Paris Agreement obligations, the study spotlights the role of the private sector in driving sustainability and innovation within the energy sector. A critical examination of public-private partnerships is provided, delving into their potential to promote cleaner technologies and align business interests with climate objectives. Against the backdrop of historical emissions, differentiated responsibilities, and global climate goals, the EACOP emerges as a symbol of the delicate equilibrium between progress and environmental stewardship that defines Uganda's developmental trajectory.