Kingfisher Project Hits Key Milestones Under CNOOC Leadership
World Business Journal talks to Liu Xiangdong, President of CNOOC Uganda, about the progress made in drilling operations, leveraging technology and innovation with the LR8001 rig to optimise resource extraction, and how the company is implementing national content strategies to benefit local communities.
What recent progress has been made in the drilling operations and the development of operational support infrastructure at the Kingfisher Development Area (KFDA)?
At KFDA, the overall project progress for surface engineering is 85.77%, and we have completed three out of the four well pads, with wells already drilled on those three pads. Civil works have commenced on the 4th well pad. The construction of the Central Processing Facility is on schedule, and the ongoing work includes tank welding and installation, equipment installations, and infield flow lines.
Currently, 13 out of the 31 wells have been drilled successfully, reaching target depth without incident, and we are ahead of schedule in this regard.
How is the LR8001 rig transforming resource extraction in the oil and gas industry while prioritising environmental sustainability?
As Africa’s first fully automated, 8,000-meter silent land rig, LR8001 features a full-site noise reduction system, zero discharge capabilities, and a fully automated pipe handling system—ensuring reduced emissions, low noise pollution, and minimal ecological disruption.
These technologies enable safe, integrated operations across various well types while preserving the surrounding environment. This marks a significant step in promoting green, low-carbon, and intelligent oilfield development in alignment with sustainable development goals.
How do CNOOC’s operations in Uganda leverage national content strategies to benefit local communities, enhance local skill sets, and contribute to broader economic development in the country?
Our operations are directly benefiting local SMEs and spurring economic growth. Through the various contracts awarded under the EPC packages, we have engaged over 1,700 Ugandans, providing income and upskilling opportunities.
64% of our workforce and over 78% of project personnel, including contractors and subcontractors, are Ugandans.
Our social programmes have implemented community engagement initiatives to improve economic welfare and skills development, benefiting over 1,000 individuals through training in heavy goods vehicle operation, ECITB certifications (pipe fitting, electrical work), tailoring, welding, and enterprise development.
In education, we have awarded cash prizes to over 1,148 students in Hoima and Kikuube districts and provided international scholarships to 11 students for studies in China.
