MANAGERS of the East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP), in collaboration with ten institutions, have successfully restored parts of the biodiversity affected by the EACOP project at Chongoleani Peninsula near the port of Tanga.

Matthew Richmond, the marine science advisor for EACOP, shared insights at a two-day workshop in Dar es Salaam lately, examining implementation reports from the ten executing agencies in the initiative.

EACOP is building a marine export terminal at Chongoleani to facilitate crude oil shipments to international markets, in which case it launched the Tanga coastal and marine biodiversity and livelihoods restoration programme three years ago.

It is now underway, with the adviser commending the EACOP management for their efforts in restoring marine biodiversity, a helpful move for local producers.

He cited the partnership with the Tanzania Fisheries Research Institute (TAFIRI) to design and carry out the sea-grass habitat net gain and restoration project, saying it will be sustainable for years to come.

Full restoration could take upwards of 20 to 30 years depending on ongoing and future studies, he said, noting that the project's current focus is on mangrove tree and seaweed growth.

There is also a simultaneous implementation of the sea-grass habitat project, he said, underlining that the restoration efforts will enhance the country’s reputation for environmental protection. 

This will create job opportunities for residents of the Tanga seascape and align with EACOP's local content policy which includes training in specialized fields of marine biodiversity preservation, he stated.

Gladys Manyika, the regional fisheries officer, hailed the restoration initiative as indicating that the EACOP project would not adversely affect local fishing activities. EACOP officials regularly engage with local authorities to ensure an inclusive implementation process, she stated, expressing satisfaction with research conducted by EACOP experts on effective environmental conservation.

“The project poses no significant threat to biodiversity,” the regional official asserted, while Dr Blandina Lugendo, a lecturer at the University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM) School of Aquatic Sciences and Fisheries Technology reassured local residents on the project's potential.

The project's environmental footprint is minimal and there are no negative environmental impacts as upon completion, fish reproduction in the area will actually increase, she stated.

The project's potential to foster growth and development is thus quite evident, she added.