The Deputy Permanent Secretary for Oil and Gas in the Ministry of Energy, Dr. James Mataragio, has affirmed that the implementation of the East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP) project takes into account the broader national interests. These include employment opportunities for Tanzanians, an increase in national revenue, and the participation of local companies in providing services throughout the project execution. While visiting the Thermal Insulation System facility in Sojo, Nzega District, Tabora Region, Dr. Mataragio witnessed the preparation and application of specialized anti-corrosion technology on the pipes that will be used to transport crude oil from Hoima, Uganda to Chongoleani in Tanga, Tanzania. “The Ministry of Energy, through TPDC, is responsible for safeguarding the Government’s interests in this project. We are satisfied with the progress of the implementation, which complies with the existing laws and agreements. So far, 100 percent of the funding for the EACOP project has been secured,” said Dr. Mataragio. He further explained that the construction of the crude oil pipeline is ongoing across the regions of Kagera, Geita, Tabora, Singida, Dodoma, Manyara, and Tanga. The project includes the construction of four pump stations and two pressure reduction stations, with overall completion of these components currently at 55 percent. “The EACOP project is now 65 percent complete and is expected to cost approximately USD 5.65 billion. Encouragingly, around 9,194 jobs have been created during the construction phase, with 75 percent of these jobs benefiting local Tanzanians,” Dr. Mataragio emphasized. He added that, to date, a total of TZS 60 billion has been generated from the project's implementation, including land lease fees, service levies, and various permit registration fees collected by local government authorities. The East African Crude Oil Pipeline is a joint initiative between Tanzania and Uganda, with each country holding a 15 percent stake. China’s UNOC owns 8 percent, while TotalEnergies holds a 62 percent share. The project is expected to be completed by July 2026.