EACOP and Bunyoro-Kitara Kingdom Strengthen Ties in Joint Engagement

East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP) Ltd. and officials from the Bunyoro-Kitara Kingdom and the recently held a meeting that signaled a significant step forward in their collaborative efforts. Led by Mr. John Bosco Habumugisha, Deputy Managing Director of EACOP, this meeting underscored the commitment to foster collaboration and cooperation between the two entities.

Hosted by the Prime Minister of Bunyoro-Kitara Kingdom, Omuhikirwa Andrew K. Byakutaga Ateenyi, the delegation comprised members of the Cabinet and distinguished guests from the Kingdom. During this significant visit, EACOP took the opportunity to extend its warm congratulations to His Majesty Omukama Rukirabasaija Agutamba Solomon Gafabusa Iguru I and Omuhikirwa Andrew K. Byakutaga Ateenyi, commemorating the 29th Coronation Anniversary. The visit also served as an occasion to express appreciation for their visionary leadership, which has been instrumental in driving the transformation of the Kingdom.

EACOP, a 1,443km crude oil export pipeline, connects Uganda’s Kabaale – Hoima to the Chongoleani peninsula near Tanga port in Tanzania. In Uganda, the pipeline spans 296km, traversing 10 districts and 25 sub-counties, with 3 of these districts situated within the Bunyoro Kitara Kingdom. EACOP has maintained its unwavering commitment to support Project Affected Persons and communities, actively engaging in the resolution of project-related grievances.

Reflecting on their past collaboration, EACOP highlighted its previous partnership with the Bunyoro-Kitara Kingdom under Total East Africa Midstream (TEAM) B.V, notably the commemoration of the 25th Empango anniversary in 2019. With the establishment of EACOP Ltd, the company is enthusiastic about revitalizing such partnerships and exploring new initiatives that bring tangible benefits to the project, local communities, and the people of Bunyoro.

EACOP regards the Kingdom of Bunyoro as a highly valuable partner and is firmly committed to exploring collaborations that not only enhance project activities but also uplift the livelihoods of the local populace. The overarching goal is to identify areas of synergy and shared ideologies that will contribute to the overall betterment of the Kingdom and its subjects.

During this engagement, EACOP initiated a discussion about the availability of a common burial area along the project route within the Kingdom of Bunyoro. This potential resource could serve as a valuable asset for the project in cases involving unclaimed bodies.

The visit epitomized an exceptional opportunity for open dialogue, the alignment of shared vision, and the fortification of collaboration between the Bunyoro-Kitara Kingdom and EACOP. Both parties left the discussions with enthusiasm, as they anticipate that this strengthened partnership will pave the way for mutual benefits and sustainable development.

The Bunyoro-Kitara Kingdom, renowned for its rich cultural heritage and its unwavering commitment to the well-being of its people, has a storied history of collaboration with various stakeholders to advance community development.