Rising fuel prices across the country are triggering a ripple effect on the economy, driving up the cost of transport, goods and services in Kabale District.
The surge follows escalating tensions in the Middle East, particularly the US–Israel conflict with Iran, which led to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a key global oil transit route. In Uganda, petrol prices have climbed to between Shs 5,200 and Shs 8,000 per litre, while diesel ranges from Shs 5,149 to Shs 6,000. The spike is attributed to disrupted global supply chains, coupled with increased regional demand from Kenya, South Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Despite government assurances of stability, localized fuel shortages persist. In some areas, boda boda riders are paying as much as Shs 7,000 per litre, further straining their operations and pushing transport fares higher.
Remegio Sunday, a boda boda rider in Kabale Town, says customers have been slow to adjust to the new fare structure. He explains that trips previously charged at Shs 1,000 now require between Shs 2,000 and Shs 3,000, but many passengers are unwilling to pay the revised rates. He is calling on government to intervene and stabilize the situation.
CUE IN SUNDAY….ON FUEL…..RR//
Another rider, Amin Mushabe, notes that fueling a motorcycle with Shs 10,000 no longer guarantees equivalent returns. He says business has declined sharply as many customers opt to walk instead, making it difficult for riders to sustain their livelihoods and support their families.
CUE IN MUSHABE…..ON FUEL…..RR//
Barnabas Tugumisirize, a resident of Kabale Town, observes that many drivers have parked their vehicles due to the soaring fuel costs. He adds that the price hikes have also pushed up the cost of food and other essential commodities, worsening the cost of living, especially for low-income households. He has urged government to invest in national fuel and oil reserves to cushion the country against such crises in the future.
CUE IN TUGUMISIRIZE….ON RESERVES….RR/ENG//
Geresem Tumwebembeze, the manager of Chello Service Station along the Kabale–Katuna Road in Kitumba Sub-county, says petrol is currently retailing at about Shs 7,500 per litre, while diesel stands at Shs 5,800. He explains that supplies are now being sourced from Tanzania, a longer and more costly route compared to previous deliveries from Kenya.
