The Impact of Oil Exploration on the Social-Economic Welfare of People in Albertine Region. A Case of Hoima District
Date
2024-10-18
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Uganda Christian University
Abstract
This study investigated the impact of oil exploration on social economic welfare of people in Albertine region, Hoima district and it was aimed to (i) establish the impact of oil exploration on land acquisition, (ii) assess its impact on the health of residents, and (iii) determine its influence on infrastructural development in the Albertine region, Hoima district. The study employed a descriptive research design with both qualitative and quantitative approaches to gather data on perceptions and factual impacts. Surveys and interviews were conducted to collect primary data, supplemented by literature reviews and secondary sources. The sample comprised 97 respondents randomly selected from communities directly affected by oil exploration activities in Hoima district. Simple random and purposive sampling techniques were utilized to ensure representation across diverse socio-economic and geographic segments. The study found a mixed perception among respondents regarding the fairness of compensation for land acquired due to oil exploration. While transparency and community consultation were recognized in some cases, concerns over adequacy and inclusivity persisted. The study concludes that while oil exploration in the Albertine region, Hoima district, has brought economic opportunities and infrastructure development, it has also raised significant challenges. These include concerns over land acquisition practices, adverse health impacts linked to environmental pollution, and the need for sustainable infrastructural investments aligned with community needs. Thus the study recommended to enhance transparency and fairness in land acquisition processes through improved communication, inclusive consultations, and equitable compensation frameworks, the study further recommended to strengthen environmental monitoring and regulatory enforcement to mitigate health risks associated with oil exploration, focusing on air and water quality management and community health assessments, and finally to promote community-driven infrastructural projects that prioritize long-term sustainability and local development needs, ensuring equitable access and benefit-sharing among affected communities.
Description
Undergraduate research