By Diana N. Kintu
President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni over the weekend held high-level bilateral talks with the President of the United Republic of Tanzania, Ms Samia Suluhu Hassan, at State House in Dar es Salaam, in a move aimed at strengthening cooperation and deepening the long-standing relations between the two neighbouring countries.
The discussions underscored the enduring partnership between Uganda and Tanzania, focusing on key areas of mutual interest including diplomatic relations, trade facilitation, energy cooperation, infrastructure development, as well as regional peace and security. The leaders reaffirmed their shared commitment to regional integration and sustainable development within the framework of the East African Community (EAC).
A major highlight of the meeting was the East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP) project, a strategic regional undertaking expected to significantly transform the energy landscape of East Africa. The 1,443-kilometre pipeline will transport Uganda’s crude oil from the Lake Albert oilfields to the port of Tanga in Tanzania for export to international markets. The project, which is anticipated to commence operations in July 2026, was described as a cornerstone of shared energy security and regional economic growth.
President Museveni emphasised the importance of expediting the implementation of the EACOP project, noting that it demonstrates the strength of cooperation between Uganda and Tanzania. He further highlighted the need to remove non-tariff barriers, improve access to Tanzanian ports, and enhance transport and logistics systems to facilitate smoother and more cost-effective trade between the two countries.
In particular, President Museveni underscored the strategic role of railway connectivity in boosting regional trade. He called for the extension of railway infrastructure to improve cargo movement and reduce transportation costs, stressing that efficient infrastructure is critical for economic competitiveness and industrial growth across the region.
On matters of security, the Ugandan leader reiterated the need for joint efforts to promote peace and stability in the Great Lakes Region. He observed that Africa’s long-term prosperity depends on production, value addition, and strategic security, adding that regional peace is essential for attracting investment and fostering socio-economic transformation.
President Museveni was accompanied by a high-level delegation of senior government officials, including the First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for East African Community Affairs, Ms Rebecca Kadaga; the Minister of Energy and Mineral Development, Ms Ruth Nankabirwa; the State Minister for Regional Cooperation, Mr John Mulimba; and the Minister of State for Transport, Mr Fred Byamukama.
Expressing appreciation for the warm reception accorded to him and his delegation, President Museveni described the talks as fruitful and forward-looking. “Today in Dar es Salaam, I held fruitful bilateral talks with H.E. Samia Suluhu Hassan. We agreed to deepen Uganda–Tanzania cooperation in energy, trade, infrastructure and regional peace,” he said.
Officials from both sides noted that the visit reflects the enduring partnership between Uganda and Tanzania, built on mutual respect, strong historical and social ties, and shared aspirations for inclusive growth and development. They pointed out that cross-border trade, migration, education, and cultural exchanges continue to reinforce people-to-people relations, which form the foundation of official diplomatic engagement.