Sustainable CSR Activities in Uganda

Abstract

Abstract As an independent oil and gas exploration and production company, Tullow approaches its CSR commitments in a unique way to ensure positive links with the local communities in which it works. The core criteria for Tullow support focuses on assisting children, improving education and providing basic health requirements. An initial dialogue is held with key locals to establish a clear priority of actions then the Team look at ways of achieving these improvements in a sustainable way. Two such examples from the Tullow Uganda operations which highlight this are described in the paper. The first outlines the lifejacket project where Tullow worked with a local company employing people from the villages to make internationally certified lifejackets. The lifejackets were designed for use by the fishermen on the lake and the project was accompanied by an incentive plan to ensure the lifejackets are worn. The second example is the Bee Keeping Co-operative where co-operatives were set up in 10 villages to build and manage 200 bee hives with expansion plans to 2000. Sunflowers and fruit trees were planted to provide additional sources of nectar for the bees and to maximise production. Although providing ongoing support and development options, this project is fully sustainable and would function in the area without Tullow involvement. The paper concludes that Tullow has demonstrated significant and sustainable benefit to the communities in Uganda where it operates. The results of the lifejacket project has shown lives are being saved among the fishing community and the sustainable commercial output from the bee keeping industry has brought prosperity to the village co-operatives and improvements to the quality of life in these areas. The Tullow CSR activities show involvement and alignment with the local communities which are sustainable and successful. Introduction Tullow Oil (Tullow) has a unique approach to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) across its business utilising the extensive and innovative approach taken in Uganda where Tullow is one of few operators. The approach that Tullow is using in Uganda is a combination of philanthropic and community involvement initiatives. The philanthropic approach focuses on Tullow's core ideals for CSR whilst the community involvement projects are innovative and sustainable initiatives that have grown from the core ideal projects. The paper will explore Tullow's core initiatives and the journey to engaging the community in innovative projects such as the Lifejacket Project and the Bee Keeping Cooperative Case Studies. These two case studies have been supported by the community and underline a transfer of entrepreneurial spirit from our CEO and a positive impact on the community.