WASCO ISOAF, in collaboration with the East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP), has successfully completed the construction of new classrooms and school latrines under the Maendeleo Programme at beneficiary schools in Sojo, Mwanzwilo, Ngogoto and Buduba villages in Nzega District.
To mark this milestone, an official handover ceremony is scheduled to take place on 23 January 2026, during which the completed facilities will be formally handed over to the respective communities and school management committees. The ceremony will be officiated by the Nzega District Commissioner, Hon. Naitapwaki Tukai, who will serve as the Guest of Honour.
The handover aims to officially transfer ownership of the facilities, acknowledge the strong collaboration and support from the Nzega District Council, Igusule Ward Development Committee, village councils, school management committees and community members, as well as promote long-term sustainability through community ownership and accountability.
Speaking ahead of the event, Gary Deason, WASCO ISOAF Project Director, emphasized the people-centred approach of the Maendeleo Programme, noting that the project goes beyond infrastructure development.
“These classrooms and sanitation facilities are more than physical structures. They represent our commitment to improving learning environments and supporting the future of children in Nzega. We are proud to work alongside communities and local leadership to deliver infrastructure that will serve generations to come,” he said.
EACOP also reaffirmed its role in supporting social development alongside infrastructure delivery. Adonis Kimbembe, Linepipe Delivery & Thermal Insulation Package Manager, said community investment remains a key pillar of the project.
“Our partnership with WASCO ISOAF reflects EACOP’s broader commitment to responsible development. By investing in education facilities, we are contributing to safer, more dignified and more enabling spaces for students and teachers within the project-affected communities,” he stated.
The ceremony will be conducted in collaboration with the Nzega District Council, Igusule Ward leadership, village authorities, school management committees and community members. Activities will include remarks from key stakeholders, a symbolic handover through the unveiling of commemorative plaques, and guided site visits to the completed facilities.
Welcoming the initiative, Hon. Naitapwaki Tukai, Nzega District Commissioner, highlighted the project’s contribution to local development.
“This project demonstrates what can be achieved when government, communities and development partners work together. These facilities will significantly improve the learning environment for our children and strengthen community pride and responsibility in maintaining public infrastructure,” she said.
The Maendeleo Programme continues to support community-driven development initiatives aligned with education, health and sustainable livelihoods across project-affected areas.
