British engineering firm Turner and Townsend has been appointed project manager for a new $1.55 billion gas pipeline in the Horn of Africa.
The company will manage the construction of the 550km Horn of Africa pipeline that will transport jet fuel, diesel and petrol from the port of Djibouti to central Ethiopia.
The pipeline is being developed by Black Rhino MOGS, a joint venture between infrastructure investment firm Black Rhino Group and South African company Mining Oil and Gas.
The project is currently in the set-up phase with detailed design and procurement due to take place over coming months.
The pipeline will be capable of transporting 240,000 per day, easing pressure on the 500 tanker trucks required to drive an 800km route.
Mark Haselau, Director at Turner & Townsend, said: “The challenge lies in overcoming the logistical, infrastructural and regulatory issues presented on the African continent – including the physical importation and transportation of materials to the many sites and laydown areas along the pipeline’s route.
“However, once completed the project will play an essential role in meeting the rising demand for fuel from Ethiopia’s fast-growing economy – as well as increasing energy security and reducing harmful emissions across the region.”