Tanzania and Uganda have reaffirmed their commitment to deepening regional energy integration following high-level discussions in Kampala on the implementation of key cross-border oil and gas infrastructure projects.
The talks brought together senior energy officials from both countries, led by Tanzania’s Permanent Secretary for Oil and Natural Gas Affairs, Dr James Mataragio, and Uganda’s Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development, Ireni Paulene Bateebe. The meeting focused on reviewing progress and accelerating the delivery of strategic projects designed to strengthen energy security, improve petroleum supply chains and support economic growth across East Africa.
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Scope of talks
Among the initiatives reviewed were the proposed Clean Petroleum Products Pipeline, the planned Marine Storage Terminal at Tanzania’s Port of Tanga and a cross-border natural gas transportation project that could enable Uganda to access Tanzanian gas resources. The projects are expected to enhance regional fuel distribution networks while creating new opportunities for trade and industrial development.
According to Dr Mataragio, the discussions reflected the continued commitment of both governments to expanding cooperation in the energy sector and ensuring that jointly developed projects move forward efficiently. He said the two countries are working closely to establish the infrastructure needed to meet rising energy demand and support long-term economic development in the region.
A key area of focus was the ongoing development of Tanga as a regional energy hub. The port city has become increasingly important to East Africa’s energy landscape due to its strategic location and its role in major petroleum and pipeline projects. Tanzanian authorities believe investments in storage, transportation and export infrastructure will position Tanga as a gateway for energy supplies serving not only Tanzania but also neighbouring countries.
The Kampala meeting comes as East African nations pursue greater collaboration on energy infrastructure to improve supply reliability and reduce logistics costs. Enhanced connectivity between national energy systems is also expected to support industrialisation and strengthen regional trade.
While in Uganda, the Tanzanian delegation attended the inauguration of the Kampala Storage Terminal, a new petroleum products storage facility that is expected to improve fuel storage capacity and support the country’s growing energy market. The launch underscores Uganda’s broader efforts to expand downstream infrastructure as regional demand for petroleum products continues to rise.
