Energy and Mineral Development minister Ruth Nankabirwa has underscored the importance of close cooperation between Uganda and Tanzania in the successful implementation of the East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP), describing the project as a model for regional integration and shared prosperity.
Leading a Ugandan delegation, the minister paid a courtesy visit to the Regional Commissioner of Tanga, Tanzania, Dr Batilda Buriani, ahead of a field tour of EACOP facilities in the region.
The visit highlighted the strong partnership between the two countries in delivering the cross-border oil infrastructure project, which is expected to transform livelihoods and boost economic growth in host communities.
“EACOP is already transforming lives in Tanga. Over 12,000 workers have been trained and employed, many of them from host communities. This is clear evidence that regional infrastructure can drive skills development, jobs, and inclusive growth,” Minister Nankabirwa said.
Officials noted that the project has had a significant impact on local communities, particularly in Tanzania, where more than 23,000 people have registered under EACOP-related programmes, with about 12,000 currently active learners.
Overall, the project has created more than 10,000 jobs across Uganda and Tanzania.
A key pillar of this impact is the EACOP Academy, launched in August 2024 as a flagship vocational training initiative aimed at building local capacity for midstream oil and gas operations.
So far, the academy has supported 141 trainees, with women accounting for 25 per cent of participants, while 80 per cent are drawn from communities along the pipeline route.
The minister said the collaboration between Uganda and Tanzania demonstrates how regional projects can unlock shared economic benefits while strengthening local skills and employment.
As the EACOP project moves closer to completion, expected by July 2025, it is expected to reshape East Africa’s energy landscape and position the region as an emerging player in global energy markets.
