Tanzania Confirms Role as Transit Hub for Uganda’s Oil Exports via EACOP
Dodoma, Tanzania — The Tanzanian government has clarified its involvement in the East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP), confirming its role as a transit route for Ugandan oil destined for global markets. Deputy Energy Minister Salome Makamba stated that Tanzania’s participation is strictly logistical, facilitating the movement of crude from Uganda’s Hoima district to the port of Chongoleani in Tanga for export.
The announcement came in response to questions raised by Bahi MP Kenneth Nollo during a parliamentary session in Dodoma. Makamba emphasized that Tanzania’s responsibility lies in providing infrastructure for the pipeline, which will stretch from Kabaale, Uganda, to the Tanzanian coast.
International Agreements Locked In
Makamba revealed that Uganda has already secured deals with major international oil players, including France’s TotalEnergies and China’s CNOOC, ensuring a structured supply chain from extraction to export. These agreements, she noted, are based on technical assessments of Uganda’s oil production capacity.
“The sales framework is already in place,” Makamba said, underscoring that Tanzania’s role is purely logistical. Once completed, the pipeline will position the country as a critical link in East Africa’s energy trade, boosting regional economic integration.
Economic Implications for Tanzania
While Tanzania will not directly profit from oil sales, the EACOP project is expected to enhance its strategic importance as a trade corridor. Analysts suggest the pipeline could spur infrastructure development and create ancillary business opportunities along the route.
The government has assured that environmental and social safeguards will be prioritized during construction. However, activists remain concerned about potential ecological risks, particularly near protected areas.
What’s Next?
With agreements finalized and construction underway, Tanzania is poised to become a key player in East Africa’s oil logistics network. The project is expected to be operational within the next few years, marking a significant milestone in regional energy cooperation.
— Reported by Nexio News
