China has extended an invitation to Uganda’s Minister of Energy and Mineral Development, Ruth Nankabirwa, to visit Beijing for discussions regarding the financing of the $5 billion East Africa Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP). This move underscores China’s commitment to supporting the development of the project.
Uganda’s President Yoweri Museveni received a letter from Chinese President Xi Jinping on April 5, expressing China’s endorsement of the pipeline project.
President Museveni emphasized China’s dedication to collaborating with Uganda for the success of the venture.
The proposed 1,443km pipeline will transport crude oil from Uganda’s Lake Albert oilfields to the Port of Tanga in Tanzania for export to international markets.
To facilitate the project, a thermal unit was installed in March to insulate the pipes before installation began.
Additionally, the first 100km of pipeline was delivered by the Chinese steel pipe manufacturer, Panyu Chu Kong Steel Pipe Company, in December last year.
China’s invitation for discussions with Minister Nankabirwa signifies the progress and importance of the EACOP, highlighting the potential for further collaboration between China and Uganda in energy infrastructure development.
