The Tanzanian government has praised the progress and local involvement in the East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP) project, describing it as a major driver of employment, skills development, and private sector growth.

Energy Minister Deogratius Ndejembi made the remarks during an inspection visit at the Sindeni Pressure Reduction Station in Handeni District, Tanga Region.

He emphasized that Tanzanians are actively involved at all stages of the project, from engineering roles to general labour positions, reflecting strong national participation.

According to the minister, the project has created around 10,000 jobs so far, with approximately 7,500 positions—equivalent to 75 percent—filled by Tanzanians.

He said this exposure is helping young people build technical skills and gain experience that will be useful in other large infrastructure and energy projects within and outside the country.

He further noted that even though construction is nearing completion, employment and professional opportunities will continue during the pipeline’s operational phase.

In addition, the government is planning further strategic energy infrastructure projects, including a refined petroleum products pipeline from Tanga to Uganda and a new TAZAMA pipeline in partnership with Zambia to replace the aging system built in 1968.The minister also revealed that more than 200 Tanzanian companies have secured contracts worth over 1.325 trillion shillings under the EACOP project, strengthening local business participation and contributing to national economic growth.