Dar es Salaam — Construction of the East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP), the flagship energy corridor linking Uganda's oil fields to Tanzania's Indian Ocean coast, has reached 86% completion, with the first crude shipments expected to begin in January 2027, according to Tanzania's Minister of Energy, Doto Biteko Ndejembi.

Speaking during an inspection of the project at Chongoleani in Tanzania's Tanga Region on Monday, Ndejembi said the cross-border pipeline remains on schedule despite minor infrastructure challenges, with overall completion targeted for August 2026.

The 1,443-kilometer heated pipeline will transport crude oil from Uganda's Lake Albert basin to the Port of Tanga for export, making it one of Africa's largest energy infrastructure developments.

Ndejembi said remaining construction issues are limited, citing delays in electricity connections at some pumping stations. He instructed contractors to work closely with Tanzania Electric Supply Company (TANESCO) to ensure power infrastructure is completed before the project's August deadline.

"The remaining challenges are relatively minor. Electricity supply has yet to reach some locations, and contractors have been directed to coordinate with TANESCO to ensure all work is completed on schedule," the minister said.

Valued at $6.02 billion, EACOP ranks among the largest infrastructure investments in East Africa. The Tanzanian government has contributed $374 million, representing a 15% equity stake in the project.

Beyond its strategic role in regional energy exports, officials say the pipeline has generated significant economic activity during construction. According to Ndejembi, approximately 10,000 jobs have been created, with 7,500 positions—around 75%—filled by Tanzanian workers.

The minister also encouraged local communities to capitalize on business opportunities created by the project, emphasizing long-term economic benefits extending beyond the construction phase.

Tanga Regional Commissioner Batilda Burian praised President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan for advancing Tanzania's partnership with Uganda on the project, saying the region has emerged as one of the principal beneficiaries through employment, local procurement, and broader economic development.

Once operational, EACOP will establish Tanga as East Africa's principal crude oil export terminal and strengthen regional energy integration between Uganda and Tanzania while positioning both countries more prominently in global oil markets.

Key Takeaways

• 1. EACOP is 86% complete, according to Tanzania's Energy Ministry.

• 2. Construction is scheduled for completion in August 2026.

• 3. First crude oil shipments are expected in January 2027.

• 4. The $6.02 billion project connects Uganda's Lake Albert oil fields to Tanzania's Port of Tanga.

• 5. Tanzania has invested $374 million, equivalent to a 15% ownership stake.

• 6. About 10,000 jobs have been created, with 75% held by Tanzanian nationals.

• 7. Remaining work primarily involves completing electricity connections for pipeline facilities in coordination with TANESCO.

• 8. The project is expected to reinforce East African energy integration and establish Tanga as a regional crude export hub.