GMU Completes Geotechnical Surveys for Kingfisher Feederline Project

Geomechanics Uganda Limited was contracted to conduct vital geotechnical and topographic surveys for the Kingfisher Feederline Development Project. The project is located in Uganda's Kingfisher Development Area (KFDA), a key oil and gas project situated in the country's southeast near Lake Albert.  The KFDA is approximately 5 hours (248.4 km) away via Kampala-Hoima Rd.

The scope of Geomechanics Uganda's work encompassed a variety of geotechnical investigations to assess the ground conditions along the pipeline route. This included rotary core drilling at various locations, including valve chambers, highway and river crossings, fault zones, and along the pipeline itself.  A total of 76 boreholes were drilled, ranging from 4 meters to 10 meters deep.  In addition to the core drilling, Cone Penetration Testing (CPTu) probes were conducted at 54 locations.

Geomechanics Uganda also conducted a topographic survey along the pipeline route, which is essential for planning construction activities.  Furthermore, geohazard mapping and analysis were undertaken in fault zones to identify and mitigate potential risks.  Trial pits were excavated at 44 locations, and Downhole Penetrometer Testing (DPL) probes were employed to gather additional subsurface data.

The project commenced on June 13th, 2022, and all fieldwork, laboratory testing of samples, and reporting were successfully completed by September 5th, 2022, with no safety incidents or accidents reported.  The comprehensive geotechnical data collected by Geomechanics Uganda Limited will be used to inform the design and construction of the Kingfisher Feederline Project. 

Kingfisher Feederline is a feeder line that transports crude oil from Bugoma to Kabaale, Hoima. The first batch of pipes for the Kingfisher Feederline project arrived at the construction site on April 18, 2023.