East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP) Ltd., in partnership with the Buganda Kingdom, has broken ground for the construction of the Kabaka Daudi Chwa II EACOP Stadium in Buddu County, Masaka City, marking a significant milestone in efforts to promote youth empowerment and community development.
The project forms part of EACOP's Social Economic Investment programme, which focuses on improving the social and economic wellbeing of communities along the pipeline route through deliberate investments in youth development and sustainable livelihoods.
The Buganda Kingdom committed 10 acres of land for the construction of the state-of-the-art community sports facility, while EACOP is providing financial support towards its development. The stadium is expected to nurture young sporting talent, promote healthy living, and serve as a centre for community engagement and unity.
Speaking during the groundbreaking ceremony, EACOP Deputy Managing Director JB Habumugisha said the project demonstrates the company's long-term commitment to sustainable development in communities where it operates.
"This groundbreaking ceremony reflects our long-term commitment to advancing sustainability and socio-economic development. By supporting the sports centre, we are investing in initiatives that will deliver lasting value for communities in which we operate," Habumugisha said.
Buganda Katikkiro Charles Peter Mayiga welcomed the partnership, describing it as an important investment in the Kingdom's youth.
"The Kingdom cherishes collaborations that address critical needs such as youth empowerment. Through the Kabaka Daudi Chwa II EACOP Stadium Buddu, we are happy to work with EACOP to create a legacy of resilience, opportunity, and growth for our people," Mayiga said.
According to EACOP, the construction of the stadium reflects the shared commitment of the company and the Buganda Kingdom to drive community transformation and sustainable development in Masaka and neighbouring areas.
The company noted that the East African Crude Oil Pipeline spans 296 kilometres across Uganda, traversing 10 districts and 25 sub-counties. Seven of those districts are located within the Buganda Kingdom, covering 130 villages across four of the Kingdom's 18 counties.
The affected areas include Gomba District in Gomba County, Kyankwanzi District in Singo County, Mubende District in Buwekula County, Sembabule District in Mawogola County, and the districts of Lwengo, Kyotera and Rakai in Buddu County.
The Kabaka Daudi Chwa II EACOP Stadium is expected to become a lasting symbol of the partnership between EACOP and the Buganda Kingdom, supporting youth development while contributing to the long-term socio-economic growth of Masaka and the surrounding region.
