By Guest Writer

The East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP) Ltd, the company leading the development of Uganda’s crude oil export pipeline, in partnership with Hoima City, has commenced the construction of the Nyamasoga – Katooke Road under its Socio-Economic Investment (SEI) programme.

This initiative aims to enhance community livelihoods and improve local infrastructure, improve trade, and support everyday activities within areas along the pipeline route.

Located in Buseruka Sub- County, Hoima District, the 7.5-kilometre marram road will connect the villages of Kayera and Katooke, home to approximately 6,500 residents across more than 600 households. Once rehabilitated, the Nyamasoga–Katooke Road will significantly enhance connectivity to the Kaiso–Tonya Highway, improving access to key trading centres such as Nyamasoga and Buseruka. The improved road network will also ease access to essential services including health facilities, schools, and local markets.

Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony, Mr. JB Habumugisha, Deputy Managing Director of EACOP Ltd., reaffirmed the company’s commitment to sustainable community development, noting:

“EACOP remains committed to ensuring that the communities along the pipeline route benefit from improved infrastructure and social services. This road project demonstrates our dedication to supporting local development priorities in partnership with government authorities.”

The project follows a community need submitted by the Hoima District leadership, aimed at improving transport and accessibility in the area. Currently, the road is in poor condition and impassable by vehicles. Its rehabilitation is expected to enhance trade, improve access to markets and services, and boost economic activity in the region.

In his remarks, Rodgers Mbabazi the Resident District Commissioner (RDC) for Hoima District expressed appreciation to EACOP for its continued collaboration and investment in community infrastructure, noting that such initiatives play a key role in advancing local

development and improving the quality of life for residents. The road was officially commissioned by the Resident District Commissioner of Hoima District, Mr. Rodgers Mbabazi, in a ceremony attended by area Member of Parliament, Local Councilors, Chief Administrative Officer and residents at a ceremony held at the Katooke trading center, Hoima District.

ABOUT EACOP: The East African Crude Oil Pipeline is a 1,443km crude oil export infrastructure that will transport Uganda’s crude oil from Kabaale – Hoima in Uganda to the Chongoleani peninsula near Tanga in Tanzania for export to the international market. This major export system includes 1,443 km (296 km in Uganda and 1147km in Tanzania) of insulated and buried 24” inch pipeline, 6 pumping stations, two pressure reduction stations and a marine export terminal in Tanzania.

Following the Final Investment Decision (FID) that was taken on the 1st of February 2022, East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP) Ltd. on 15th February concluded the formation of the company that will construct and operate the pipeline.

EACOP Ltd. is a special purpose company, governed by its Shareholders Agreement in which TotalEnergies (62%), Uganda National Oil Company (UNOC – 15%), Tanzania Petroleum Development Corporation (TPDC – 15%) and CNOOC (8%) are shareholders. (For comments on this story, get back to us on 0705579994 [WhatsApp line], 0779411734 & 041 4674611 or email us at mulengeranews@gmail.com).