MANYARA: KITETO District government has pledged to mobilise and support local entrepreneurs and established traders in supplying quality goods and services to East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP) project sites and camps within the district. Speaking at a suppliers’ forum jointly organised by EACOP and China Petroleum Pipeline Engineering Company Ltd (CPP), Kiteto District Commissioner Mr Remidius Emmanuel reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring that local businesspeople benefit from opportunities arising from the construction of the multi-billion-dollar pipeline. However, the DC stressed that seizing these opportunities would require hard work, professionalism and adherence to required standards. “This project is not only about oil and infrastructure; it is about the economic empowerment of our people. I urge all businesspeople in our district to ensure they meet the required standards so that our district can benefit fully from these opportunities,” said Mr Emmanuel. He called on entrepreneurs and traders to step up their efforts by supplying goods that meet established quality and procurement standards. The EACOP project is governed by Tanzania’s Local Content Law, which mandates the use of local suppliers in order to boost domestic participation and foster transparency in doing business. According to the National Economic Empowerment Council (NEEC), supplier forums like the one held in Kiteto are key to enabling local entrepreneurs to access opportunities and compete fairly. “Forums like this one are important. They foster transparency and ensure local businesspeople are not left behind. These forums also present an opportunity for local traders to compete on a level playing field,” said the NEEC in a statement. During the session, EACOP Local Content Manager Ms Martha Makoi presented detailed information on procurement procedures, supplier responsibilities and quality standards expected from participating vendors
Prospective suppliers were informed that supply engagements are projected to last for one year, with a possibility of extension. However, only suppliers who meet stringent quality requirements will be considered. Kiteto District is known for its vibrant agricultural and livestock sectors, with residents widely engaged in cereal farming and rearing cattle, goats and sheep. These resources could position local traders to benefit directly from the pipeline project if leveraged effectively. The forum also encouraged Kiteto entrepreneurs to be innovative, collaborative and professional in order to successfully tap into the economic opportunities brought by the EACOP project.