Analyzing the Effectiveness of the Legal and Regulatory Framework Governing the Social License to Operate in Uganda’s Oil and Gas Industry.

Abstract

The research study analyses the effectiveness of the legal and regulatory framework governing the Social License to Operate (SLO) in Uganda's oil and gas industry. The research objectives include evaluating the legal framework for SLO, comparing the legal framework for obtaining SLO in Uganda's oil and gas industry with that of Nigeria and Tanzania, identifying the challenges of obtaining SLO in Uganda's oil and gas industry, and making recommendations supported by best practice. The study used a doctrinal legal research methodology, which comprised efficient and organized analysis of legal propositions and rational conclusions. The study also used a comparative legal research method by analysing and comparing the legal and regulatory frameworks governing SLO in Uganda with those of Nigeria and Tanzania. The study revealed that there was no explicit legislative instrument to facilitate the accomplishment of SLO in Uganda's oil and gas industry, but there were stipulations in the industry's policies and legislations, such as the 2008 National Oil and Gas Policy, the 2017 National Content Policy for Uganda's Petroleum Sector, and Vision 2040. The study also highlighted the importance of the "Buy Uganda Build Uganda Policy" and the need for IOCs to collaborate with local communities to obtain SLO.