East Africa is preparing to enter global crude markets as the $5 billion East African Crude Oil Pipeline targets first exports by October 2026. The 1,443 kilometre pipeline will transport crude oil from Uganda’s Albertine Graben to Tanzania’s Indian Ocean port of Tanga and is expected to become the world’s longest heated oil pipeline. According to Africa Business Insider, construction is now about three quarters complete, with major civil and mechanical works advancing across both countries.
The pipeline is designed to carry Uganda’s waxy crude at elevated temperatures to ensure smooth flow to the export terminal. Officials familiar with the project say above ground facilities and storage infrastructure at Tanga are progressing steadily. Industry briefings cited by Africa Business Insider note that commissioning activities are scheduled to begin in mid 2026, ahead of the targeted export date.
Uganda’s Petroleum Authority has said the project remains on track despite earlier delays, highlighting strong coordination between contractors and government agencies. Tanzanian energy officials have also reaffirmed their commitment to meeting the export timeline, noting that associated infrastructure including pumping stations and the marine terminal are nearing completion, as stated in regional energy updates referenced by the Zimbabwe mail.
Once operational, the pipeline is expected to transport up to 230,000 barrels of crude oil per day, unlocking Uganda’s estimated 6.5 billion barrels of oil reserves. Analysts say the project will significantly boost export revenues, strengthen regional integration and position Uganda and Tanzania as key players in East Africa’s emerging energy corridor, as highlighted by regional market analysts and industry reports.
