FridayOL

Paris, France – TotalEnergies CEO Patrick Pouyanne has strongly defended the company’s involvement in oil projects across East Africa, responding to recent allegations of human rights abuses levelled by a United Nations human rights expert. The response comes amidst growing scrutiny of the company’s operations in countries like Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania, where ambitious oil pipeline projects are underway.

Speaking on Friday, Pouyanne asserted that TotalEnergies is committed to responsible and ethical operations, emphasizing the company’s efforts to mitigate any potential negative impacts on local communities and the environment. He highlighted the significant economic benefits these projects are expected to bring to the region, including job creation and infrastructure development. “We are very careful to respect human rights and to work with local communities,” Pouyanne stated, adding that the company has implemented robust grievance mechanisms and is actively engaging with stakeholders.

The controversy stems from a report by a UN human rights expert who suggested that TotalEnergies should be held accountable for alleged abuses linked to the East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP) project. The EACOP, a 1,443-kilometer pipeline designed to transport crude oil from Uganda to Tanzania’s Indian Ocean port of Tanga, has faced criticism from human rights groups and environmental activists.

Concerns raised include displacement of local communities, environmental degradation, and inadequate consultation with affected populations. Critics argue that the project could exacerbate climate change and undermine efforts to transition to cleaner energy sources. The UN expert’s report specifically called for an independent investigation into the allegations and suggested that TotalEnergies should consider suspending its involvement until the concerns are addressed.

TotalEnergies, however, maintains that it has taken steps to address these concerns. Pouyanne pointed to the company’s commitment to compensating affected communities and its investments in environmental protection measures. He also emphasized the importance of the projects for the economic development of East Africa, arguing that they can help to alleviate poverty and improve living standards. “These projects are vital for the future of these countries,” Pouyanne asserted, “and we are committed to ensuring that they are developed in a responsible and sustainable manner.”

The debate highlights the complex challenges facing multinational corporations operating in developing countries, where balancing economic development with human rights and environmental protection is a constant struggle. The scrutiny faced by TotalEnergies underscores the growing pressure on companies to demonstrate their commitment to ethical and sustainable practices, and the increasing importance of transparency and accountability in their operations. The situation remains fluid, and further developments are expected as the EACOP project progresses and investigations into the allegations continue.