ENtebbe, September 9, 2026 — The Petroleum Authority of Uganda (PAU) has appointed Fred Kabanda as its new Executive Director, with the veteran petroleum sector professional expected to take office on December 1, 2026.
Kabanda brings more than 30 years of experience in petroleum regulation, policy development and sector governance. He currently heads the Extractives Division at the African Development Bank, where he provides strategic leadership on oil, gas and mining development across Africa.
He previously held senior positions at Uganda’s Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development, where he contributed to the development of key petroleum laws and policies, including the National Oil and Gas Policy 2008.
Kabanda also played a role in petroleum licensing, field development, regulatory oversight and contract negotiations, and supported the transition of regulatory functions from the Ministry to PAU.
He holds a Master of Science in Petroleum Engineering from the Norwegian University of Science and Technology and a Bachelor’s degree in Geology and Chemistry from Makerere University.
He will succeed Otonga Michael Ochan, who will remain Acting Executive Director until Kabanda assumes office.
The PAU Board said Kabanda’s experience will be important as Uganda moves towards commercial oil production and the long-term sustainable development of its petroleum resources.
