On April 7, a Ugandan court dismissed charges against youth activists arrested in August 2024 for protesting the controversial East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP). The #StopEACOP campaigners, who faced months of legal battles, celebrated the ruling as a partial victory.
However, concerns remain over the ongoing harassment of climate defenders as the $5 billion project, backed by TotalEnergies and China National Offshore Oil Corporation (CNOOC), pushes forward.
Recent months have seen escalating demonstrations across Uganda and Tanzania, with activists warning that EACOP threatens ecosystems, displaces communities wildlife, and undermines global climate goals. Protesters have faced intimidation, arbitrary arrests, and restricted civic space, even as international financiers continue supporting the pipeline.
“This dismissal doesn’t erase the repression we’ve faced,” said one activist, speaking anonymously for safety. “While corporations profit, our land, water, and futures are at risk.”
The case highlights the tension between Africa’s energy investments and climate justice movements. Despite pressure from environmental groups, EACOP’s backers remain committed, leaving activists to question whether legal wins can truly halt the project—or if stronger global solidarity is needed to protect both people and the planet.
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