Oil drilling has begun in a Chinese-operated field in Uganda, with commercial production anticipated to start by 2025. Some environmental activists and other stakeholders have reportedly complained about what they claim are potential environmental impacts of the operation.

Construction of the 897-mile East Africa Crude Oil Pipeline is also beginning this year, connecting Uganda and Tanzania. The pipeline is projected to be completed by 2025. Climate activists have raised issues with the pipeline’s potential effects on local communities and the environment.

According to the EU parliament, the pipeline project could potentially put 100,000 people “at imminent risk of displacement… without proper guarantees of adequate compensation.”

Ugandan authorities have taken steps to address these concerns and compensate those displaced by the project. They view the pipeline as a key to economic development and say they will be providing compensation for those affected by the pipeline.

Ultimately, the success of the project will depend on how it is managed and implemented. The Ugandan government is committed to the project, claiming it could lift millions out of poverty.