economy 9 April 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Rising Fuel Costs in Uganda Hit Transport Operators Hard Amid Global Conflicts
Uganda's transport sector faces severe strain from surging fuel prices driven by Middle East tensions, with boda-boda riders and taxi operators reporting lost income as commuters resist fare hikes. Operators in regions like Kisoro and Arua warn of potential job losses and rising crime risks. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/uganda-fuel-price-surge-squeezes-transport-sector-as-global-tensions-bite-5417570
Fuel prices across Uganda have spiked sharply, putting immense pressure on the transport industry. Petrol now costs between Shs 5,289 and Shs 6,000 per litre in various areas, while diesel ranges from Shs 5,149 to Shs 6,500, according to local reports.
In Kisoro District, southwestern Uganda, about 20% of boda-boda riders using rented bikes have returned them due to unaffordable petrol costs, says Baker Batamukoraho, General Secretary of the Kisoro United Boda-boda Operators Association. He fears some may turn to crime, noting the sector supports over 5,000 jobs including youth and graduates.
Taxi operators in Kisoro report passing higher transport costs to traders, forcing commodity price increases. In nearby Kabale, operators plan radio announcements for fare hikes after petrol rose by Shs 1,000 per litre. Kanungu faces fuel shortages, with stations closing temporarily and prices hitting Shs 6,400 per litre.
Northern Uganda’s Arua sees petrol at Shs 6,000-Shs 6,500, prompting commuters like Loyce Ayikoru to pay Shs 8,000 daily for short trips, up from less. Eastern DR Congo’s high prices draw cross-border fuel buyers from Uganda.
In Jinja, taxi drivers lose Shs 500 per passenger as diesel costs climb without fare changes, per association chair Kalidi Muyingo. Kagadi riders’ earnings have dropped from Shs 30,000 to Shs 10,000 daily, leading to disputes with bike owners. Busia, a key import point, notes fewer tankers due to Middle East disruptions.
The Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development is monitoring global oil fluctuations to stabilize supplies and avert a pricing crisis.
Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)