The East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP), in partnership with the Buganda Kingdom, on 23 July officially broke ground on the construction of the Ssaza Buddu Stadium in Buddu County, Masaka City.

The project is part of EACOP's Social Economic Investment programme under its youth empowerment pillar, which supports initiatives aimed at improving the social and economic wellbeing of communities along the pipeline corridor.

For the project, the Buganda Kingdom committed 10 acres of land for the construction of the stadium, while EACOP made a financial contribution towards its development. Once completed, the facility will serve as a modern community sports centre where young people can develop their sporting talent, remain active, and participate in community events.

Speaking during the groundbreaking ceremony, EACOP Deputy Managing Director John B. Habumugisha said the project demonstrates the company's long-term commitment to sustainability and community development. "This groundbreaking ceremony reflects our long-term commitment to advancing sustainability and socio-economic development. By supporting the sports centre, we are investing in initiatives that will deliver lasting value for communities in which we operate."

The Katikkiro of Buganda, Owek. Charles Peter Mayiga, welcomed the partnership, describing it as an important investment in youth empowerment. "The Kingdom cherishes collaborations that address critical needs such as youth empowerment. Through Ssaza Buddu Stadium, we are happy to work with EACOP to create a legacy of resilience, opportunity, and growth for our people."

According to EACOP, the stadium is a shared initiative with the Buganda Kingdom aimed at supporting sustainable regional development in Masaka and neighbouring communities.

The EACOP pipeline passes through seven districts within the Buganda Kingdom: Gomba, Kyankwanzi, Mubende, Sembabule, Lwengo, Kyotera, and Rakai. Across these districts, the project covers 130 villages in four of the Kingdom's 18 counties.

The partnership reflects a shared commitment by EACOP and the Buganda Kingdom to support communities beyond pipeline construction through investments designed to create lasting social and economic benefits.