Overview:
Authorities have urged the public to avoid panic buying, saying the system remains adequately stocked and supported by incoming deliveries.
KAMPALA – The government has moved to reassure the public that Uganda’s fuel supply remains secure, even as reports emerge of empty fuel stations in parts of the country and sharp price increases in some regions.
In a statement released on April 21, 2026, the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development, together with the Uganda National Oil Company (UNOC) Uganda National Oil Company, said national petroleum stocks are stable and sufficient to meet current demand, with additional shipments already on the way.
The reassurance comes against growing public concern, with several fuel stations in Kampala reportedly running dry in recent days. In Wakiso, Mukono and Entebbe, motorists have reported queues at the few stations still operating, while others have temporarily shut down or begun rationing supplies. In parts of West Nile, fuel prices have reportedly surged to as high as Shs8,000 per litre, deepening anxiety among consumers and transport operators.
Despite these developments, government maintains that supply levels remain within manageable thresholds.
Current stock levels
As of April 20, 2026, official figures show:
- Petrol: 70.5 million litres (19 days cover)
- Diesel: 43.2 million litres (12 days cover)
- Jet fuel: 32.0 million litres (53 days cover)
Incoming shipments
The Ministry said additional cargoes are already in transit through the Port of Mombasa and ports in Tanzania, expected between May and June 2026. These are projected to significantly boost national reserves.
Planned arrivals include:
- Petrol: 183 million litres (additional 49 days cover)
- Diesel: 258 million litres (additional 74 days cover)
- Jet fuel: 23 million litres (additional 37 days cover)
Government says the shipments form part of a coordinated supply strategy designed to stabilise the market and prevent disruptions.
Supply claims vs ground reality
While officials insist there is no cause for alarm, the situation on the ground appears mixed. In some urban and peri-urban areas, motorists have expressed frustration over long queues and uncertainty over where to refuel.
Transport operators say the situation has begun affecting mobility and business operations, especially where stations have either run dry or are strictly rationing fuel to customers.
The Ministry, however, maintains that it is working closely with licensed Oil Marketing Companies and regional suppliers to ensure continuous distribution and safeguard supply chain integrity.
Authorities have urged the public to avoid panic buying, saying the system remains adequately stocked and supported by incoming deliveries.
For now, the contrast between official assurances and visible shortages continues to fuel public concern, as consumers await stabilisation of supply and prices across the country.