Tanzania and Uganda have made significant progress in developing infrastructure for receiving, storing, and transporting refined petroleum products at Chongoleani in Tanga. A joint technical committee from both countries handed over the proposed project site to Worley Consulting Group Limited, which will undertake preliminary feasibility studies. The studies will include soil testing, environmental assessments, and preliminary designs for the facilities. This development is part of an agreement between Tanzania and Uganda to develop strategic energy projects.
The planned infrastructure is expected to add value to crude oil transported through the East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP) and help reduce reliance on imported refined petroleum products. This will strengthen fuel supply security and expand business opportunities across East Africa. The project is a strategic development that could strengthen Tanga's position as an oil and gas hub in the region. According to the Ministry of Energy, the project will contribute to expanding petroleum-related activities and strengthening the role of Tanga in the regional energy sector.
Ministry of Energy Assistant Commissioner for Midstream and Downstream Petroleum, Grace Mwakasege, emphasized the strategic importance of the project. She stated that the development would contribute to making Tanga an important hub for oil and gas activities in the East African region. The project is expected to create new opportunities for the local community and stimulate economic growth.
Uganda's Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development Assistant Commissioner, Geofrey Ogwang, highlighted the benefits of the partnership. He stated that the cooperation would create employment opportunities, facilitate technology transfer, and stimulate economic activity among residents of Chongoleani and Tanga. The handover marks the beginning of preliminary technical work that will inform subsequent decisions on the development of the proposed infrastructure.
The joint technical committee handed over the site to Worley Consulting Group Limited on October 1, 2026, marking a significant milestone in the project's development. The consultant will conduct preliminary feasibility studies to inform the project's next stages. The studies will provide critical information on the project's viability and potential impact on the local community and environment.
The project is part of a broader agreement between Tanzania and Uganda to develop strategic energy projects. The two countries are working together to strengthen their energy sectors and create new opportunities for economic growth. The development of the refined oil infrastructure in Tanga is a key component of this agreement.
The project's progress is a positive development for the region, with potential benefits for both Tanzania and Uganda. The project's success could lead to increased economic activity, job creation, and improved fuel supply security. Key aspects of the project include the development of infrastructure for receiving, storing, and transporting refined petroleum products, reducing reliance on imported refined petroleum products, and strengthening Tanga's position as an oil and gas hub.
Key points
- The project aims to strengthen fuel supply security and expand business opportunities across East Africa.
- The development of the refined oil infrastructure in Tanga is expected to create employment opportunities and stimulate economic growth.
- The project will add value to crude oil transported through the East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP).
