By Karim Were
DAR ES SALAAM, Tanzania— President Yoweri Museveni and Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan on Wednesday witnessed the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between the Uganda National Oil Company (UNOC), the Tanzania Petroleum Development Corporation (TPDC) and Vitol Bahrain E.C. aimed at developing the Tanga Regional Energy Hub.
The agreement, signed in Dar es Salaam, marks a significant step in strengthening energy cooperation between Uganda and Tanzania as the two countries continue to deepen collaboration in the oil and gas sector.
The proposed Tanga Regional Energy Hub is expected to enhance petroleum storage, distribution and trade across East Africa, positioning the Tanzanian port city of Tanga as a strategic centre for regional energy operations.
President Museveni said the partnership demonstrates the commitment of both governments and private sector players to promoting economic integration and expanding energy infrastructure within the region.
Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan welcomed the agreement, describing it as an important milestone that will boost investment, create employment opportunities and support economic growth in both countries.
The memorandum brings together three key stakeholders in the energy industry: the Uganda National Oil Company, Tanzania’s state-owned petroleum corporation and Vitol Bahrain E.C., an international energy company with extensive experience in global energy markets.
Officials said the Tanga Regional Energy Hub will facilitate efficient storage and transportation of petroleum products, improve energy security and strengthen cross-border trade among East African nations.
The project builds on existing cooperation between Uganda and Tanzania, including the East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP), which will transport crude oil from Uganda’s oil fields to the port of Tanga for export to international markets.
Energy experts believe the new initiative will further consolidate the strategic partnership between the two countries and contribute to the region’s long-term energy and economic development.
More details regarding the implementation timeline, investment commitments and operational framework of the project are expected to be released in the coming months.
