ENTEBBE, Uganda – In a groundbreaking achievement, E&E Experts Co. (U) Ltd, a locally owned company, has become the first Ugandan firm to secure accreditation from the American Petroleum Institute (API), the global leader in setting standards for the oil and gas industry.
This milestone marks a significant turning point for Uganda’s oil and gas sector, paving the way for local companies to compete globally. E&E Experts’ API certification enhances its credibility, competitiveness, and market reach, both locally and internationally.
The company’s expertise encompasses drill pipes, casing, tubing, oil and gas supplies, inspection and audit services, chemical supply, steel structure manufacturing, technical consulting, spare parts, and flange manufacturing.
API Certification: A Game-Changer for Local Content
Since the Final Investment Decision (FID) in February 2022, the Petroleum Authority of Uganda (PAU) has approved contracts totaling approximately USD 7.16 billion, with about USD 1.8 billion (UGX 7 trillion) awarded to Ugandan companies. E&E Experts’ API certification is expected to shift the trend in favor of local companies.
“Operational excellence, environmental compliance, and competitive advantage enable us to work globally, enhance our market competitiveness, streamline costs, and reduce operational complexity,” said Muhamed Mahmoud Raafat, E&E Experts’ Country Manager.
Boosting Local Competitiveness
PAU’s Executive Director, Ernest Rubondo, praised the development, stating it supports Uganda’s local content goals. “With this accreditation, a Ugandan company can now serve the oil and gas industry regionally, being the only local entity with the required certification.”
Addressing Local Content Challenges
Many Ugandan companies have struggled to secure contracts due to lack of international certifications. E&E Experts’ achievement sets a new benchmark, according to James Musherure, PAU’s Senior National Content Officer. “Certifications like API are the minimum requirement for any company to earn trust and provide services in the oil and gas industry globally.”
Challenges in Building Capacity
E&E Experts invested considerable time and effort to build systems complying with API standards. “You need to demonstrate excellent product quality, material standards, and client satisfaction. Investing in human resource training and technical upgrades is critical,” said Muhamed.
However, few local companies or individuals in Uganda are familiar with international standards. E&E Experts has only one locally trained Quality Control and Quality Management expert, highlighting the need for more investment in building local capacity.
Wider Implications
Muhamed emphasized the need to extend training beyond the oil and gas sector, reaching other industries. “This isn’t just an oil and gas challenge; the entire supply chain needs to meet these standards.”
Efforts to Close the Standards Gap
The Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS) and PAU are working to develop standards and build capacity. Quarterly supplier development workshops aim to enhance local firms’ capacity and encourage certifications.
E&E Experts’ certification is a significant step forward for Uganda’s oil and gas industry, demonstrating that local companies can compete favorably with international counterparts.
Benefits of API Certification
- Enhanced credibility and competitiveness
- Increased market reach and access to regional markets
- Improved operational efficiency and reduced costs
- Compliance with international standards
- Boost to Uganda’s local content goals
Future Outlook
E&E Experts’ achievement sets a precedent for Ugandan companies, encouraging others to pursue international certifications. As local capacity builds, Uganda’s oil and gas industry is poised for growth, with E&E Experts leading the way.
“Certification is just the beginning. We will continue to invest in training and capacity building, ensuring Uganda’s oil and gas industry remains competitive globally,” said Muhamed.
With E&E Experts’ API certification, Uganda’s local content goals are within reach, paving the way for sustainable growth and development in the oil and gas sector.
