President Museveni Appoints New Chairperson and Members to the Board of the Petroleum Authority of Uganda
President Museveni has appointed Ms Lynda Biribonwa, an environment, health, and safety specialist, as the Chairperson of the Board of Directors of the Petroleum Authority of Uganda (PAU), succeeding Ms Jane N. Mulemwa (PhD), whose second and final four-year term ended in May 2024.
This significant appointment follows the successful vetting and approval by the Parliamentary Appointment Committee, led by the Speaker of Parliament in June 2024. Ms Biribonwa brings a wealth of experience to the role, with over twenty-three years of expertise in environment, health, and safety at various levels.
In addition to Ms Biribonwa, the President also appointed six other members to the PAU Board, in accordance with Section 17 (2) of the Petroleum (Exploration, Development, and Production) Act, 2021. These appointments include individuals with diverse backgrounds and expertise in the oil and gas sector.
Among the newly appointed members are Mr Bernard Ongodia, a Geophysicist with extensive experience in Petroleum Exploration, Development, and Production, currently serving as the Principal of Uganda Petroleum Institute, Kigumba (UPIK); Mr Adrian Bukenya, a seasoned professional with over twenty years of global experience in the energy, infrastructure, and financial services sectors; and Mr. Innocent Kihika, an Energy Lawyer with over twenty-five years of experience in Energy, Mining, and Infrastructure Law.
The new Board also includes Ms Oduka Ochan Achan, a finance specialist with over forty-two years of experience in financial planning, marketing, and strategic planning; Ms Solome Galiwango, a professional with over twenty years of experience in the energy sector; and Prof. Vincent Bagire, a management specialist with over twenty-seven years of teaching experience in strategic management.
The Minister of Energy and Mineral Development, Hon. Ruth Nankabirwa, will inaugurate and hand over instruments of power to the new Board on July 19th, 2024, at Amber House, Kampala. The new Board will be tasked with overseeing the oil and gas sector during a crucial development phase, ensuring regulatory compliance and creating lasting value for Uganda.
With a diverse and experienced team in place, the PAU Board is well-equipped to navigate the challenges and opportunities in the industry, contributing to the sustainable growth and development of Uganda’s oil and gas sector.