Business 25 April 2026 The Observer (Uganda)
Kampala Faces Acute Fuel Shortage with Soaring Prices and Long Queues
A fuel shortage that began in upcountry areas has now gripped Kampala, leaving major fuel stations empty and driving petrol prices up to Shs 6,000 per litre amid long queues and frustration for motorists and transport operators. Global oil disruptions from Middle East tensions and a weak shilling are exacerbating the crisis despite official claims of stable reserves. Source: https://observer.ug/news/fuel-shortage-hits-kampala-triggers-price-hikes
Motorists across Kampala are facing severe challenges in securing fuel as a shortage, initially hitting rural stations, has spread to the capital city. This has led to extensive queues, depleted stocks at major outlets, and sharp price increases.
By Friday, stations run by Vivo Energy (Shell) and TotalEnergies were largely out of petrol, with attendants turning away customers or hiking prices to around Shs 6,000 per litre. Smaller dealers remain some of the few options still supplying fuel.
Industry experts point to global factors like escalating tensions involving Iran near the Strait of Hormuz, disrupting oil supply chains and elevating crude prices. Combined with the depreciating Uganda shilling, these issues have inflated import costs, causing local supply disruptions and volatility.
While the Energy Ministry and Uganda National Oil Company (UNOC) insist national reserves are adequate, the reality on Kampala’s streets shows frequent stock-outs. Boda boda riders like John Bosco Kayizi from Kabalagala had to travel kilometres from Kansanga to Kibuli to refuel, skipping multiple empty stations.
URN reported heavy lines at spots in Kamwokya and Kibuli. Riders such as Moses Tumuhimbise on Jinja Road noted daily fuel costs jumping from Shs 30,000 to Shs 40,000-45,000, with passengers reluctant to accept higher fares. Taxi operator John Kamya said drivers are cutting trips to manage expenses and urged government action.
Frank Mawejje, chairman of the Boda Boda Union Association, highlighted prices varying from Shs 5,400 per litre in Greater Kampala to Shs 7,000 upcountry, squeezing profits and deterring customers. Reports indicate even steeper hikes, like Shs 9,900 per litre in Kasese and Shs 8,000 in Kabale.
Source: The Observer (Uganda)