THE implementation of the East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP) project, an ambitious infrastructure undertaking stretching approximately 1,443 kilometres from Hoima in Uganda to Chongoleani, Tanga-Tanzania, has now reached 60 percent completion, according to officials.

The progress update was delivered on Monday during an inspection visit by the board of directors from the Energy and Water Utilities Regulatory Authority (EWURA) to the Chongoleani section of the pipeline in Tanga Region.

Speaking on behalf of the board chairperson, Eng. Ngosi Mwihava, who also chairs EWURA’s Energy Committee, expressed the board’s satisfaction with the steady and tangible progress on the ground.

He reiterated EWURA’s critical mandate in overseeing the project’s compliance and execution, ensuring it aligns with national interests and sustainability principles.

Eng. Mwihava further emphasised that the authority is committed not only to regulatory oversight but also to maximising socio-economic benefits for Tanzanians.

This includes creating employment opportunities, facilitating technology and skills transfer, and promoting local content by encouraging Tanzanian enterprises to participate in the project’s value chain—ranging from goods supply to service provision.

Providing additional insight, Geoffrey Mponda, director of human resources and administrative services at EACOP Ltd., disclosed that the project has, to date, generated employment for over 6,000 individuals.

Impressively, approximately 70 percent of them are residents from communities situated along the pipeline corridor. This reflects a growing and inclusive engagement of local populations, underscoring the project's positive socio-economic footprint.

Prior to the site visit, the EWURA board held discussions with the Tanga Regional Commissioner, Ambassador Dr Batilda Burian.  highlighted the substantial benefits the EACOP project has already brought to the region, noting a surge in local economic activity.

A considerable number of Tanzanian suppliers and service providers have registered on EWURA’s supplier database, enhancing their access to contracts and commercial opportunities related to the pipeline’s construction and eventual operation.

The Tanzanian government holds a 15 percent equity stake in the EACOP project through the Tanzania Petroleum Development Corporation (TPDC), reflecting its strategic interest in the venture.

Once completed, EACOP will be the longest heated crude oil pipeline in the world, serving as a major conduit for the transportation of crude oil from Uganda’s oilfields to international markets via the Tanzanian coast.