The Deputy Permanent Secretary for Oil and Gas in the Ministry of Energy, Dr. James Mataragio, has lauded the impressive progress made on the East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP) project during his recent visit to key facilities in Igunga District, Tabora Region.
The project, a vital strategic initiative for Tanzania and Uganda, is set to transform the region’s energy landscape and boost economic growth.
On July 26, Dr. Mataragio toured Pumping Station No. 5 (PS-5), a critical facility designed to enhance oil pressure along the pipeline route, and Camp No. 10, a major logistics hub responsible for the storage and management of pipeline materials.
The Deputy Permanent Secretary expressed satisfaction with the current stage of the PS-5 construction, which has reached 41 percent completion.
He encouraged all stakeholders to maintain the momentum and ensure the project adheres strictly to the implementation schedule.
“I commend the project team for the commendable progress made so far. It is crucial that we remain committed to timely completion, as outlined in the project plan,” Dr. Mataragio said.
Highlighting the government’s continued support, he also praised the involvement of local Tanzanians, including women, in various project activities, underlining the importance of inclusive participation for sustainable development.
TPDC’s National Project Coordinator for EACOP, Mr. Asiadi Mrutu, provided insights into the technical aspects of the project during the visit.
He explained that PS-5 will primarily rely on electricity supplied by TANESCO, supplemented by emergency generators capable of producing 30.57 megawatts to guarantee uninterrupted operations.
The EACOP pipeline, stretching approximately 1,443 kilometers from Hoima in Uganda to the Chongoleani Peninsula in Tanga, Tanzania, will feature six pumping stations strategically positioned to regulate the flow of crude oil and safeguard pipeline infrastructure. In Tanzania, these stations are located in Muleba, Mbogwe, Igunga, and Singida, with the remaining two situated in Uganda.
At Camp No. 10, Dr. Mataragio inspected the storage facilities and observed ongoing operational activities, emphasizing the critical role these logistics centers play in supporting the pipeline construction.
The East African Crude Oil Pipeline is poised to be a game-changer in the region, unlocking vast economic opportunities, strengthening energy security, and creating employment for local communities in both Tanzania and Uganda.
The government remains fully committed to facilitating the successful implementation of this landmark project, which is expected to contribute significantly to the national economy and regional integration.