Fuel prices have surged across Ntungamo District, with several filling stations adjusting their pump prices upward amid emerging shortages, particularly of diesel.
While many stations remain operational, some operators warn that stocks are thinning and could run out in the coming days, raising concern among motorists who accuse dealers of inflating prices.
Fuel station operators, however, attribute the increases to broader market scarcity and high importation costs, insisting that the situation is driven by supply pressures rather than local manipulation.
“The fuel in the market is expensive, and the cost of transporting it is high. That is what is affecting the prices. For us at Unique, it has not affected us much because we usually stock early and plan ahead,” said Gracious Turyamuhakyi, Manager at Unique Fuel Station in Ntungamo.
At Shell Fuel Station, Supervisor Michael Bakashaba said prices have been rising almost weekly, adding that diesel shortages could worsen the situation.
“Prices keep increasing every week. In a few days to come, we are told diesel might run out. People think we are the ones determining the prices, yet the decisions are made at head office. We receive many complaints from customers,” he said.
At Total Fuel Station along the Ntungamo highway, manager Emanuel Habago warned that smaller stations may struggle to remain operational if the supply pressure continues.
“The small stations might run out and be forced to close because they lack capacity. Bigger companies plan for their market and have better storage systems,” he said, noting that petrol prices have also risen significantly.
He added that petrol has increased from about Shs5,180 to Shs5,500.
Current fuel prices in Ntungamo vary across stations.
At Total, diesel is selling at Shs5,350 while petrol is at Shs5,500. Kobil is selling premium fuel at Shs5,690 and diesel at Shs5,450.
Shell’s prices stand at Shs5,400 for diesel and Shs5,540 for Fuel Save Unleaded. Mogas is selling premium at Shs5,650 and diesel at Shs5,299, while Unique Fuel Station lists premium at Shs5,500 and diesel at Shs5,300.
