The oil and gas industry in Uganda recently paid tribute to Ernest Rubondo, the pioneer Executive Director of the Petroleum Authority of Uganda (PAU), who has concluded more than four decades of service to the country's petroleum sector. A farewell event was held, bringing together former and current Ministers of Energy and Mineral Development, leaders from government institutions, industry executives, development partners, and colleagues.
Speakers at the event praised Rubondo's outstanding contribution to the development of Uganda's petroleum industry and his role in shaping a generation of professionals across the sector. His leadership was credited with strengthening regulatory oversight, promoting national participation, attracting significant investment, and guiding the sector through critical milestones.
Proscovia Nabbanja, Chief Executive Officer of the Uganda National Oil Company (UNOC), delivered a heartfelt tribute, reflecting on her first encounter with Rubondo in 2000. She described him as a mentor who helped shape her professional journey and instilled in her the values of integrity, discipline, and service.
Dr. Fred Kabagambe-Kaliisa, Presidential Advisor on Oil, Gas and Minerals, recounted Rubondo's early years in the petroleum sector, having recruited him as a Geological Assistant in 1984. He described Rubondo as a focused, resilient, and determined professional who remained optimistic even in challenging situations.
International partners from Norway, the United Kingdom, and the United States also praised Rubondo's professionalism, integrity, humility, and commitment to advancing Uganda's petroleum sector. The Chairperson of the Board of the Petroleum Authority of Uganda, Lynda Biribonwa, commended Rubondo for his visionary leadership and stewardship of the Authority.
Rubondo reflected on his career, which began in 1984 at the then Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources. He described his journey as one defined by teamwork, commitment, and service to the country. He expressed appreciation to President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni for his consistent support and guidance to Uganda's petroleum sector.
The Minister of Energy and Mineral Development, Dr. Monica Musenero Masanza, called on the next generation of leaders to uphold the values, systems, and culture established under Rubondo's leadership. She challenged stakeholders to focus on key questions that should guide Uganda's economic transformation through petroleum resources.
Key points
- Ernest Rubondo's leadership in Uganda's petroleum sector has been instrumental in shaping the industry and positioning the country for commercial oil production.
- Rubondo's contribution to the sector has been praised by industry leaders, international partners, and colleagues.
- The foundations laid by Rubondo will continue to shape the sector's growth and success for years to come.
