(Dar es Salaam) – The East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP), a cross-border project from Hoima, Uganda, to Tanga, Tanzania, has reached 47.1% completion, bringing employment opportunities and infrastructure upgrades to communities along its route.
The Tanzania Petroleum Development Corporation (TPDC) confirmed on November 13, 2024, that the EACOP project is progressing steadily. Siadi Mrutu, the project coordinator, highlighted the milestones achieved, including compensation payments, housing construction, and significant community benefits.
Of the 9,927 individuals eligible for compensation, 9,858 have been paid, leaving only 69 cases pending. Furthermore, 340 houses have been built and handed over to 294 residents, exceeding the original promise. The relocation process also included transferring 1,146 graves.
The project, which began in February 2022, has created 8,694 jobs for Tanzanians, with more opportunities expected as new contractors join. Mrutu emphasized that hiring processes are transparent, with no tolerance for corruption or bribery. Local government authorities are involved to ensure fair recruitment, especially for non-specialized positions.
EACOP has also improved local infrastructure. For instance, the project upgraded the Muheza town water pipeline from six-inch to eight-inch capacity, enabling the supply of two million liters of water per day, significantly enhancing access to clean water in the area.
The Tanzanian government has earned TZS 50 billion in revenue from project-related permits, land leases, municipal fees, utility services, security, and taxes from companies working on the pipeline.
The project spans the construction of 16 camps to store materials and house workers, with 12 camps located in Tanzania and four in Uganda.
Key Achievements of EACOP Project |
Details |
|---|---|
| Project Completion | 47.1% |
| Compensation Paid | 9,858 out of 9,927 claims settled |
| Houses Built for Displaced Residents | 340 (Original target: 294) |
| Graves Relocated | 1,146 |
| Jobs Created for Tanzanians | 8,694 |
| Water Pipeline Upgraded in Muheza | Capacity increased to 2M liters/day |
| Government Revenue Earned | TZS 50 billion |
| EACOP Camp Locations |
|---|
| 12 camps in Tanzania |
| 4 camps in Uganda |