The East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Industry Enhancement Centre (IEC), to advance national content development and strengthen the capacity of Ugandan Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) participating in the oil and gas sector.
The key objectives of the MoU are to ensure timely dissemination of business opportunities from EACOP, its contractors, and subcontractors to IEC-registered companies, organize and deliver IEC-led trainings, stakeholder engagements, and capacity-building programs across Kampala and other districts, and expand EACOP’s network of contractors and subcontractors to support IEC’s programs and enrich industry-wide collaboration.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, on December 10, 2025, JB Habumugisha, the Deputy Managing Director of EACOP, reiterated EACOP’s commitment to national content development, and creating opportunities for SME in the oil and gas industry.
“This partnership with the Industry Enhancement Centre underscores our unwavering commitment to empowering Ugandan businesses and maximizing local content. By working together, we aim to create opportunities for SMEs to grow, compete, and sustainably contribute to the oil and gas sector and the broader economy,” Habumugisha said.
He added that the collaboration highlights the commitment of both institutions to fostering sustainable development, and building long-term capacity for Ugandan SMEs.
Jimmy Mugerwa, the Managing Director of Zoramu Consulting Group, welcomed the collaboration, expressing their excitement to collaborate with EACOP Ltd. in providing Ugandan enterprises with the training, guidance, and networks they need to thrive.
“This MoU represents a significant step forward in building local capacity and ensuring that Ugandan companies are key players in the development of our country’s oil and gas industry,” Mugerwa said.
IEC was created by Total Energies, following recommendations from the 2013 Industrial Baseline Survey (IBS), which identified the need to enhance local participation in the sector. The centre provides training; advisory services, business operations support, and financing guidance to help Ugandan enterprises effectively engage and grow within the industry.
