Uganda and Tanzania have intensified coordination on the East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP) holding a joint review meeting as preparations advance for a high level inspection of key project sites along the pipeline route.
The meeting brought together senior government officials and technical teams from both countries to take stock of construction milestones, address implementation priorities and align next steps as the project approaches its final phases.
Uganda’s delegation was led by Ruth Nankabirwa, the Minister of Energy and Mineral Development alongside officials from national oil and pipeline institutions. The Tanzanian team was headed by Deogratius Ndejembi who reaffirmed Tanzania’s continued support for the cross-border project.
During the review, officials received updates on the overall status of the 1,443-kilometre heated pipeline which will transport crude oil from Uganda’s oilfields in Hoima to the export terminal at the Port of Tanga. The project has reached an advanced stage, with significant progress recorded across civil works, welding and mechanical installations.
Both governments expressed confidence in the pace of implementation and reiterated their shared objective of ensuring the pipeline is ready for start up in 2026. Once operational, EACOP is expected to provide Uganda with direct access to international oil markets while strengthening economic cooperation between the two countries.
Minister Nankabirwa underscored the importance of sustained collaboration, noting that the project represents a strategic regional investment with wide ranging benefits, including employment creation, skills development and infrastructure growth in host communities.
To validate progress on the ground, Uganda and Tanzania are planning a joint tour of selected project sites. The visit will allow ministers and technical teams to inspect completed sections of the pipeline and assess readiness for the final stages of construction and commissioning.