Dar es Salaam, Tanzania — Uganda and Tanzania are deepening regional integration through major infrastructure projects, enhanced trade, and tourism initiatives, according to officials at the 5th Uganda–Tanzania Joint Permanent Commission (JPC) held at the Julius Nyerere International Convention Centre.
Vincent Waiswa Bagiire, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Uganda, highlighted tangible progress since the last JPC. “The commissioning of the Kikagati–Murongo 14MW Hydropower Project is a symbol of how joint infrastructure can power regional growth and opportunity,” Bagiire said.
Key Infrastructure Projects
The meeting showcased a series of strategic projects reshaping the regional economic landscape.
East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP): The pipeline linking Hoima in Uganda to Tanga in Tanzania has reached 79% completion, positioning the corridor as a key driver for investment, logistics, and industrial growth.
Transport and Connectivity: New transport links across Lake Victoria are expanding commercial mobility. Operational vessels such as MV Kaawa, MV Pamba, MV Umoja, and the newly launched MV New Mwanza are increasing trade routes and tourism access.
Rail and Digital Infrastructure: A Memorandum of Understanding was signed for the Isaka–Lusahunga–Murongo/Kikagati–Mpondwe Standard Gauge Railway, cross-border fibre links at Mutukula, and harmonised regional roaming frameworks, strengthening both physical and digital integration.
Trade and Economic Growth
Bilateral trade between the two nations continues to expand. In 2025, Uganda imported $2.7 billion worth of goods from Tanzania while exporting $300 million. Current JPC discussions are focused on removing non-tariff barriers to create a seamless trading environment.
Bagiire emphasised the importance of translating diplomacy into tangible opportunities. “Dialogue continues to translate diplomacy into opportunity. A stronger partnership means greater prosperity for the region,” he said.
The 5th JPC aimed to tackled trade bottlenecks, improve investment frameworks, and unlock tourism potential between Uganda, the “Pearl of Africa,” and Tanzania along the Swahili Coast.
Regional Integration in Action
Officials note that Lake Victoria is emerging as a critical commercial artery, boosting economic connectivity and regional mobility. The cooperation highlights shared goals of stability, growth, and prosperity across East Africa.
Bagiire concluded, “Our partnership with Tanzania is rooted in shared history, Lake Victoria connectivity, and a common vision for East Africa’s prosperity. Together, we are building infrastructure that powers trade, investment, and tourism for the benefit of all citizens.”
