Satisfaction with Adequacy and Fairness of Compensation Amongst EACOP PAPs

Context and Background Before compulsory land acquisition, Project Affected Persons (PAPs) are expected to receive compensation that is fair and sufficient to offset losses. However, defining “fair” and “adequate” is subjective, making assessments contentious. While global studies have explored compensation practices in similar contexts, there is a notable gap in empirical research within Uganda, particularly for large-scale projects like the East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP). This study therefore examines the satisfaction of PAPs along the East African Crude Oil Pipeline regarding compensation adequacy and fairness, focusing on Kiziranfumbi Subcounty in Kikuube District. Goal and Objectives: The specific objectives of the study were to determine the factors that influence satisfaction of PAPs with compensation awards, to ascertain the level of satisfaction of PAPs with compensation adequacy, and to evaluate the extent to which implementation of the existing compensation legal framework aligns with fairness principles. Methodology: The research adopted a case study research design and employed mixed methods approach by combining quantitative data from 150 PAPs with qualitative insights from 9 key informant interviews (KIIs), 3 Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) and document review. Simple random sampling was adopted for readily available PAPs while the snowball technique was employed to track PAPs that had relocated. The key informants i.e: 4 local leaders, a community-based organization (CBO) official, an EACOP official, 2 Petroleum Authority of Uganda (PAU) officials and an official from Ministry of Lands, Housing and Urban Development (MLHUD) were purposively selected based on their expertise and involvement in the project. Quantitative data was analyzed using SPSS Ver 25.0. Qualitative data was transcribed and subjected to thematic analysis to uncover recurring patterns, while content analysis was used for secondary data. Results: The findings revealed that satisfaction amongst PAPs is primarily influenced by timeliness of compensation. Overall satisfaction with compensation amongst PAPs remains low. However, PAPs that received in-kind compensation reported higher satisfaction than those who received cash. The widespread dissatisfaction stems from delays in disbursement, largely attributed to the COVID-19 outbreak. The limited stakeholder engagement and lack of transparency further exacerbated discontent. Furthermore, Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) are said to have significantly shaped perceptions by raising expectations and amplifying dissatisfaction where procedural gaps existed.