By Sadique Bamwita
ENTEBBE
The Board of Directors of the Petroleum Authority of Uganda (PAU) has appointed Fred Kabanda as the Authority’s new executive director, effective December 1, 2026. Kabanda has replaced Ernest Rubondo whose contract expired early this year.
Kabanda’s appointment follows the successful completion of the recruitment and onboarding process, according to PAU.
Kabanda brings more than 30 years of experience in Uganda’s petroleum sector, having served in technical and leadership positions at the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development and the African Development Bank.
Lynda Biribonwa, the PAU board chairperson, noted that Otonga Michael Ochan will continue serving as acting executive director until Kabanda assumes office.
The board thanked the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development for its guidance throughout the appointment process and said it looks forward to working with Kabanda in his new role.
The Authority said it remains focused on delivering its mandate of supporting the sustainable development of Uganda’s petroleum resources and contributing to the country’s socio-economic transformation.
