CNOOC Uganda concludes the Kingfisher Bunyoro Youth Engagement Games
David GOMBE
CNOOC Uganda Limited is pleased to announce the successful conclusion of the Kingfisher Bunyoro Youth Engagement Games, a month-long initiative that has been aimed at promoting youth talent, community mobilization, and strengthening bonds across the Bunyoro region.
Organized in partnership with the Bunyoro Kitara Kingdom, the games which were launched earlier this month have been held under the theme, “Building Partnerships through Sports for Sustainable Development.”
Throughout December, the games featured totalled up to 28 matches, with 25 in the preliminaries bringing together teams from 15 counties across the eight districts of Kikuube, Hoima, Masindi, Buliisa, Kiryandongo, Kakumiro, Kibaale, and Kagadi. This collaborative effort showcased the remarkable sporting talent and community spirit of the Bunyoro region.
Speaking at the closing ceremony, Ms. Aminah Bukenya, Ag. Head of Corporate Affairs CNOOC Uganda Limited, emphasized the significance of the initiative, stating,
“These games have demonstrated the unifying power of sports in bringing together diverse members of the Bunyoro community, stakeholders, and partners. Through this initiative, we have not only celebrated sporting excellence but also laid the foundation for sustainable development and strengthened community ties.”CNOOC remains committed to building partnerships that foster dialogue and progress.”
Andrew Byakutaaga Ateenyi, Prime Minister of the Bunyoro Kitara Kingdom, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the broader impact of the engagement: “CNOOC’s unwavering support through initiatives like this goes beyond the games. It’s about preparing our youth for future opportunities in the oil and gas sector and fostering unity within the host communities.
Participants in the Youth engagement teams, were honoured with prestigious awards and generous cash prizes, recognizing their talent and effort.
These rewards not only celebrated their achievements but also served as a testament to their dedication, teamwork, and excellence throughout the competition.
Award of medals and cash prizes to the winners were categorised in the following;
Fourth place-cash prize 500,000 UGX.
Third place-Bronze medals and cash prize 750,000 UGX.
Second place-Silver medals and cash prize 1,000,000 UGX.
Winner-Gold medals cash prize 1,500,000 UGX and a bull worth 2,000,000.
Over the years right from 2012, CNOOC has demonstrated a strong commitment to community development through various impactful initiatives.
In education, the company provides International Scholarships to China to outstanding students , Best performers awards have also been conducted as a way of rewarding top-performing students in National exams and promoting academic excellence, and for this year 218 students benefited from this program.
Free medical camps have been organised in our operational areas of Buhuka to deliver essential health services to underserved communities and ensure greater access to health care.
To support local capacity building, CNOOC conducts knowledge-sharing sessions, such as those at the International University of East Africa, equipping professionals with advanced skills in geological and reservoir modelling for the oil and gas sector.
Over 1000 youths have benefited from our National content skilling programs, which include Train the trainer programs, ECTIB, Heavy Goods and Welder Training programs offered by the company.
The company also prioritizes community safety and awareness through campaigns addressing HIV and syphilis testing, Mpox education, road safety, and human rights.
Furthermore, CNOOC underscores its commitment to environmental stewardship reflecting its dedication to biodiversity and sustainability.
These efforts reflect CNOOC’s dedication to holistic community development, ensuring both immediate and long-term socio-economic benefits for the Bunyoro region.
CNOOC Uganda Limited extends its gratitude to the Bunyoro Kitara Kingdom, the participating teams, and the entire community for making the Kingfisher Bunyoro Youth Engagement Games a resounding success.
The company reaffirms its commitment to the sustainable and responsible development of the Kingfisher Development Area, ensuring that initiatives like this continue to uplift the communities in which it operates.