After more than a decade of planning, delays and fierce opposition, the East African Crude Oil Pipeline is nearing completion, poised to become the world’s longest electrically heated crude oil pipeline and unlock Uganda’s long-awaited entry into global oil markets.

The 1,443-kilometer (897-mile) pipeline will transport waxy crude from Uganda’s Albertine Graben oil fields near Lake Albert to the Chongoleani Peninsula near Tanzania’s Tanga port on the Indian Ocean.

Its 24-inch diameter design includes electrical trace heating to maintain temperatures around 50 degrees Celsius (122 degrees Fahrenheit), preventing solidification.

At peak capacity, it is expected to carry up to 246,000 barrels per day.

Construction advanced significantly following the Final Investment Decision in 2021-2022.

As of mid-2026, the project has reached approximately 80-84% overall completion, with all line pipes delivered, substantial progress on pump stations, and the marine terminal and jetty exceeding 88% completion.

Officials target commissioning in July 2026 and first oil exports by October. Uganda discovered commercially viable oil reserves estimated at 6.5 billion barrels in 2006, with recoverable volumes between 1.4 billion and 1.7 billion barrels.

However, landlocked geography and technical challenges delayed development for years.

The project involves TotalEnergies as the majority stakeholder, along with the Uganda National Oil Company, Tanzania Petroleum Development Corp. and China’s CNOOC.

Proponents highlight transformative benefits as the pipeline is expected to generate substantial revenue for Uganda and Tanzania, create jobs, boost infrastructure and position Uganda as an oil exporter.

Tanzanian and Ugandan officials have conducted joint site visits, commending progress at pump stations and the marine terminal. Yet costs have ballooned.

Originally estimated at around $3.5-5 billion for the pipeline, total project figures, including upstream developments, have risen significantly.

International financing proved challenging after major banks and insurers withdrew amid environmental concerns, leaving the project to rely on regional lenders and additional equity from partners to help close financing gaps.

The project has faced sustained criticism from environmental groups, activists and some communities. Opponents, including the #StopEACOP campaign, argue it threatens wetlands, wildlife corridors, water sources and livelihoods.

Reports have highlighted risks near river crossings, such as the Kibale/Bukoora area, where construction reached riverbanks, but crossings remained incomplete as of spring 2026.

Critics also question the adequacy of impact assessments for heating system failures and long-term climate impacts. Land acquisition and resettlement of project-affected persons have been contentious, with reports of delays in compensation exacerbating livelihood disruptions.

Pipeline advocates point to biodiversity offsets, community investments and skills programs, including scholarships and training in welding and energy sectors. However, the global context adds pressure.

Analysts note that shifting oil demand due to electric vehicle adoption and energy transitions could affect project economics.

As final mechanical construction and hydro-testing proceed in the second half of 2026, EACOP stands as a symbol of East Africa’s resource ambitions amid global energy shifts.

Success hinges on safe operations, stable oil prices and managing residual environmental and social risks.

For Uganda and Tanzania, it represents a high-stakes bet on fossil fuels to fuel development — one that will be closely watched across the continent.