Uganda has appointed global energy and commodities trader Vitol to market the government's crude oil allocation ahead of planned exports expected early next year, the Uganda National Oil Company (UNOC) announced Monday. According to a statement issued by UNOC, Vitol will handle the marketing of the state's share of crude as the country prepares to begin exporting oil. The appointment marks a step in Uganda's efforts to commercialise its petroleum resources.

MTN Uganda is playing a crucial role in the country's preparation for its first oil production by providing essential networks and digital services. This involvement goes beyond traditional oil drilling and infrastructure, emphasizing the importance of modern technology and reliable internet connectivity for the efficiency and safety of the oil industry, according to TechJaja.

Uganda's oil industry is progressing towards significant milestones, particularly in the Albertine region where drilling and infrastructure development are underway, and the Tilenga project is nearing its first oil production. However, according to The Observer, many Ugandan businesses involved in the sector are experiencing a financial crisis due to a collective debt exceeding $9.7 million.

Uganda has formally introduced its crude oil grade, Pearl Sweet, to the international petroleum market at the Asia Pacific Petroleum Conference (APPEC) 2026 in Singapore, days after President Yoweri Museveni named the grade. According to the Uganda Standard, Energy and Mineral Development Minister Dr Monica Musenero Masanza unveiled the crude before refiners, traders and investors from Asia, the Middle East and Europe as the country seeks buyers for its oil.

Dangote Group has announced plans to construct a refinery in Kenya with a capacity of 700,000 barrels per day. The company aims for the refinery to cater to East African markets as part of its strategy to enhance its presence in the energy sector across the continent.

Uganda has signed a coffee export agreement with South Korean company GVCC Co. Ltd that is expected to create annual demand for more than 3,500 tonnes of Ugandan coffee. The deal, signed on September 7 in Busan, involves Uganda's Besmark Coffee Company and is described as opening a gateway for the country's coffee into Asian markets, according to Eagle Online.