Overview:
The minister reported that Uganda currently holds approximately 21 days of diesel and 26 days of petrol. Jet fuel stocks are sufficient for 40 days, with additional shipments expected to boost reserves further.
KAMPALA: Uganda remains stable in its fuel supply despite escalating tensions in the Middle East, including the ongoing conflict involving Iran, Energy Minister Ruth Nankabirwa has assured the public.
Speaking to journalists on Wednesday, Minister Nankabirwa said the government, through the Uganda National Oil Company (UNOC), has taken strategic measures to ensure that the country’s fuel reserves remain sufficient.
“We are going through the implications of the conflict that is happening in the Middle East because it touches us as well. We will continue monitoring it. But all in all, UNOC made a very good decision, guided by the President, to ensure we partner with firms that have the potential to source fuel from multiple sources,” she said.
The minister reported that Uganda currently holds approximately 21 days of diesel and 26 days of petrol. Jet fuel stocks are sufficient for 40 days, with additional shipments expected to boost reserves further.
“In April, we have ships on the way coming from different parts of the world, avoiding the problematic Strait of Hormuz. We have no doubt that these supplies will take us to 60 days for jet fuel, with about 283 million litres of petrol and 183 million litres of diesel expected, which will last for around 30 days,” Nankabirwa explained.
She added that incoming shipments of jet fuel — about 25 million litres — will extend supply to 38 days, while diesel will last 51 days, nearly doubling current reserves.
The minister urged oil marketing companies not to use the international conflict as an excuse to raise pump prices.
“UNOC, being the sole importer, will monitor international price trends. If prices escalate abroad, we will inform the public accordingly. But in March, there is no reason for fuel prices to increase because of the Middle East situation,” she said.
Minister Nankabirwa also confirmed that the government would intensify engagement with oil marketing firms to answer questions and ensure transparency in pricing and supply management.
She reassured Ugandans that strategic planning by UNOC would keep the country’s fuel supply stable and sufficient, providing comfort to consumers amid global uncertainties.