By Janeth Mesomapya

Minister of Energy Dr. Medard Kalemani has called on Tanzanians to seize the opportunities associated with the implementation of the Hoima-Tanga crude oil pipeline construction project (EACOP).

He made the call today, July 3, 2021 at a seminar for private sector stakeholders discussing the opportunities available in the EACOP project. The seminar was organized by the Petroleum Development Corporation (TPDC) in collaboration with the Tanzania Private Sector Foundation (TPSF) and held in Tanga.

"This project is very important for private sector stakeholders in the country, you have the right to use the opportunities arising from this project but you also have a responsibility to implement those opportunities diligently and effectively," he said.

Speaking on local content aspect of the project, Minister Kalemani instructed the EACOP company to ensure that it uses locally produced goods and services in the implementation of the project, except for products and services that must be imported.

"EACOP should ensure that all pipeline construction equipment is available in the country, including oil pipelines, and I urge Tanzanians who are willing to set up pipeline factories, take loans from banks and start production so that the products are easily available," he stressed.

Similarly, Minister Kalemani has instructed TPDC to ensure that Tanzanians receive priority in employment opportunities, especially those that are most valuable.

"There are about 15,000 jobs in the implementation of this project, I order these jobs to be given to Tanzanians, especially the official cadres and not just small businesses, cleaners and so on," he added.

For his part, TPDC CEO James Mataragio explained that some of the opportunities available in the implementation of the project include contract services, building materials, transportation, food and beverages, hotels and catering, fuel products, office equipment and other.

It is noted that this project is worth USD 3.5 billion and will pass through 8 regions of mainland Tanzania and is expected to be completed in 36 months.