EACOP nears 73 percent as Uganda eyes asset boom
The East African Crude Oil Pipeline represents a $5 billion investment that will expand Uganda’s infrastructure assets. The 1,443-kilometer system connects Kabaale in Hoima District to Chongoleani near Tanga Port in Tanzania. Construction is 73 percent complete and will transport crude oil from production sites to export markets for processing and sale. The project has generated additional development in roads, hotels, and other facilities across the Bunyoro region.
Merian Ahabwe, the pipeline’s national content manager, said pump stations and above-ground equipment will operate for approximately 25 years. Ugandans will manage these facilities throughout the operational period. The Institute of Asset Management plans to open its first African office in Uganda to train professionals in physical asset management. The organization will hold its launch event on Nov. 6 and 7.
Horace Muhamya, president of the institute’s Uganda branch, said proper asset management supports national development and service reliability. The initiative will promote best practices for infrastructure planning and maintenance across public and private sectors. The nearly 20 trillion shilling investment has already begun stimulating the construction of auxiliary infrastructure. The institute aims to build expertise for managing the country’s expanding physical assets.
