216 Tanzanians benefit from EACOP’s educational support

TABORA: 124 Tanzanian students have received scholarships through the Education Sponsorship Program run by the East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP) and WASCO ISOAF.

The official launch ceremony was held at the VETA Institute in Tabora and was attended by community leaders, representatives from EWURA, TPDC, VETA, and senior government officials.

Speaking at the event, Gary Deason, Project Director of WASCO ISOAF, said, “Today, we are investing in the future. This is more than just a scholarship program.” He emphasized that the initiative aims to strengthen families, improve livelihoods, and lay the foundation for national development.

With the addition of these 124 beneficiaries, EACOP has now sponsored a total of 216 students. The program is part of a broader strategy to provide high-quality technical education in collaboration with institutions such as the University of Dar es Salaam, Arusha Technical College, and various VETA centers across the country.

More than 71 young Tanzanians have gained access to practical training opportunities both locally and abroad, including in China, South Africa, the United Arab Emirates, and France. In addition, over 250 instructors have been trained through the Train-the-Trainer program to enhance technical teaching across the country.

Dr. Zebedayo Kyomo, Principal of VETA Tabora, stated, “We are proud to support this impactful program and remain committed to delivering quality training to these beneficiaries.”

Through the Industrial Enhancement Centre initiative, more than 100 small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Tanzania have received training on modern pipeline technologies and safety standards to boost their participation in the oil and gas value chain.

As part of project implementation, over 6,763 Tanzanians are expected to be employed, with more than 24 million work hours projected and over 347,000 hours dedicated specifically to training local workers.

Geofrey Mponda, Human Resources Director at EACOP, said, “This is a long-term investment in young people who will become future engineers and innovators of Tanzania.”

Neema Kweka, EACOP’s Local Content Manager, added, “The EACOP journey reflects our commitment, performance, and prosperity. We’re not just building a pipeline — we’re building a lasting legacy.”

The Nzega District Commissioner praised the initiative as a model of public-private partnership, describing it as a critical step in empowering youth both economically and socially.

The EACOP project involves the construction of a 1,443-kilometer crude oil pipeline stretching from Hoima, Uganda, to Tanga, Tanzania.

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The project includes six pumping stations, two pressure reduction stations, and a marine export terminal in Tanga. The Final Investment Decision (FID) was made on February 1, 2022, and the operating company was officially established on February 15, 2022.

The launch event highlighted a shared vision to build a knowledge-based and prosperous Tanzania for future generations.