EACOP Hits 82% Completion, Moves Closer to First Oil from Uganda to Tanzania
The East African Crude Oil Pipeline has reached 82% overall completion as of April 2026, with construction progressing steadily across pipeline sections, pump stations, and export infrastructure in Tanzania and Uganda.
The update was disclosed by the project company in its latest construction report, confirming that the 1,443-kilometre heated pipeline, designed to transport crude oil from Uganda to Tanzania’s coastline, is advancing toward its first oil target after achieving key engineering and logistics milestones.
Guillaume Delout, Managing Director of the project company, said the focus remains on delivering the project safely and on schedule.
“As we progress further into 2026, our focus remains firmly aligned toward safe, timely, and efficient project completion as we advance toward First Oil,” he stated.
Marine Terminal and Pipeline Works Advance
Construction activity has intensified across major components of the project, including pipeline welding, trenching, pump station development, and terminal infrastructure.
At the Chongoleani Marine Terminal, the marine jetty has reached 88.1% completion, with installation of key mechanical, hydraulic, and electrical systems for Marine Loading Arms A, B, and C now finalized.
Preparations are underway to relocate the loading arms from the quay wall to the storage barge as part of the final installation phase.
Project officials reported that progress recorded during the first quarter of 2026 reflects steady advancement across all construction fronts.
Major Logistics Milestone Achieved
A significant milestone was reached on January 10, 2026, with the delivery of the final batch of pipeline materials in Uganda, marking the completion of a critical procurement and logistics phase.
The pipes were received at the project’s main camp and designated pipe yard facilities, ensuring that all required materials for pipeline construction are now in place. This development is expected to accelerate installation across the remaining sections of the pipeline corridor.
Government Oversight and Regional Significance
In February 2026, Mwigulu Nchemba visited the marine terminal and jetty facilities in Tanga to assess construction progress.
He commended the pace of work and reaffirmed government support for the project, underscoring its strategic importance to national and regional energy development.
The pipeline will transport crude oil from the Tilenga Oil Field and the Kingfisher Oil Field to the export terminal on Tanzania’s coast.
The project is being developed through a joint venture involving TotalEnergies, the Uganda National Oil Company, the Tanzania Petroleum Development Corporation, and CNOOC.
Strategic Impact
Once operational, the pipeline is expected to transport up to 246,000 barrels of crude oil per day, positioning it as one of the most significant energy infrastructure projects in East Africa.
The project is anticipated to deliver broad economic benefits, including:
- Increased oil export capacity
- Transit revenue generation
- Job creation
- Infrastructure development along the pipeline corridor
Participating countries continue to advance the project as part of broader efforts to strengthen regional energy cooperation and enhance long-term export capabilities.
