Energy ministry begins environmental assessment for Buyende nuclear project

14 August 2026, 11:45 am

By Ali lukomo

Three companies are leading an environmental impact assessment focusing on communities, forest cover and aquatic life around the landing sites in Bukungu and Kasato.

The companies contracted to conduct the environmental impact assessment comprise experts from different fields who will assess the potential impacts of the proposed nuclear energy project and identify measures to mitigate them.

The assessment will examine, among other areas, the potential effects of the project on aquatic life and biodiversity. The experts will also conduct field visits and engage communities to sensitise local leaders and community members about the assessment and the proposed project.

After completing the assessment, the companies will submit a report to the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development for further analysis.

The companies today engaged district officials, including the Resident District Commissioner and his team, as well as local government leaders, among others, to introduce the assessment process.

According to Robert Kilyoowa, an official responsible for environmental matters, the assessment is being conducted in accordance with the National Environment Act to ensure that people and the surrounding environment are not adversely affected by the proposed nuclear power project.

He also said that, where necessary, trees would be planted to replace those lost during the project. Although the trees may not be planted in the same location, suitable alternative sites would be identified to help protect the environment and ensure the safety of the community.

According to the Local Council Five Chairperson, Mr Sharif Mangareine, the impact of the project could be long-term. He asked the ministry to organise a benchmarking tour for local leaders to countries or areas where nuclear power plants have been established or similar projects implemented.

He also asked the ministry to be vigilant against fraudsters who disguise themselves as ministry officials while allegedly attempting to acquire people’s land and property.

The companies leading the environmental impact assessment are Chil Company, GBN and Excel Services. They are responsible for preparing a comprehensive report on the potential environmental and community impacts of the project.

More than 25,000 community members are expected to be affected and will be required to relocate in the next phase of the project. More than 10 villages, including Kiwantaama, Nawansaso, Buyanja, Karunji, Butayunjwa and Kasaala, among others, are expected to receive compensation.

On compensation, Aaron Mugisha, the project officer, said the process is almost complete and that affected residents will soon receive their payments.

He added that plans are underway to establish an office where affected communities can seek assistance and report any challenges or discrepancies arising during the process.