Construction of the East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP) has reached over 81 percent completion, according to project officials, who also highlighted growing opportunities for young Tanzanians in the energy sector.

The update was shared during the Fourth University Students Conference held in Arusha, where more than 200 students engaged with industry leaders to learn about career paths and skills required in the oil and gas industry.The 1,443-kilometre pipeline is designed to transport crude oil from Uganda’s Hoima oil fields to the Port of Tanga in Tanzania.Construction started in 2022 and is expected to be completed next year, with full oil transportation operations planned for 2027.

Officials from the Tanzania Petroleum Development Corporation (TPDC), including Director of Planning and Investment Derick Moshi, confirmed that the project is progressing well and preparations are also underway for a future oil refinery in Tanga.The project has already generated significant employment, with more than 10,000 direct and indirect jobs created since construction began.On the Tanzanian side alone, 8,856 workers have been employed, and around 90 percent of them are Tanzanians, most of whom are young people.

EACOP Director of Operations Paul Hiegel emphasized that the initiative aims to prepare youth for upcoming opportunities in the energy sector and improve their skills.

EACOP’s Human Resources Director and Acting Tanzania Manager Geofrey Mponda noted that the student conference is part of a broader effort by EACOP and its shareholder TotalEnergies to equip young people with knowledge and readiness for future jobs.The programme is expected to benefit over 12,000 youth across multiple regions through skills development and engagement in the energy value chain.