Uganda Takes Major Step Forward in Crude Oil Pipeline Project.

By Teddy Namayanja

The East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP) project reached a significant milestone on Monday as the first batch of coated line pipes arrived in Uganda. Nine trucks carrying insulated line pipes from Tanzania’s Nzenga coating plant were delivered to the main camp and pipe yard in Kyocera district.

“This is a major landmark in the construction of EACOP and a clear sign of progress,” said Ali Ssewatawa, Director of Legal and Corporate Affairs at the Petroleum Authority of Uganda (PAU). “Government and partners are committed to ensuring developments are completed in an environmentally responsible and sustainable manner.” He added.

The $5 billion project, jointly developed by Uganda and Tanzania, aims to connect oil fields in Uganda’s Albertine Basin to the Tanga port in Tanzania. With 800 kilometers of line pipes already received, civil works have advanced on pumping stations, main camps, pipe yards, and storage facilities along the 1,443-kilometer pipeline.

To mitigate climate change risks, the project will utilize renewable energy for all operations, with the 296km Ugandan section set to be fully carbon neutral, powered by 80MW of solar and hydroelectric energy. Similar renewable capacity development is underway on the Tanzanian side.

EACOP Ltd reaffirmed its commitment to meeting construction and operational timelines, prioritizing safety, environmental sustainability, and local community engagement. The project remains on track to export the first barrels of crude oil by the end of next year.

China Petroleum Pipeline Engineering Co. Ltd (CPP) is the construction contractor for EACOP, while Total Energies, Uganda, Tanzania, and China National Offshore Oil Corporation are shareholders.

This milestone brings Uganda closer to realizing its oil and gas potential, bolstering economic growth and energy security in the region.