Hoima High Court Prepares to Hear Land Dispute Case for Oil Refinery Project

The High Court in Hoima is set to hear a case involving residents displaced during the 2014 land acquisition for the Hoima Oil Refinery. Represented by the Africa Institute for Energy Governance (AFIEGO), the plaintiffs allege unfair compensation after losing 29 square miles of land in Kabaale Parish to government projects, including the refinery, Kabalega International Airport, and an industrial park.  

Lead petitioners Peter Alanatwe and Allan Bariyo, alongside Oil Refinery Residents Association chairperson Innocent Tumwebaze, argue that inadequate compensation has disrupted livelihoods, particularly education and family welfare. The Attorney General’s office, representing the government, maintains the acquisition followed legal protocols.  

Presiding Judge Vincent Opio has directed both parties to pursue mediation before proceeding with formal hearings. The case underscores tensions between Uganda’s oil development plans and community land rights in the Albertine region. A resolution could influence future infrastructure-related land disputes. The court will reconvene after mediation efforts.