Despite growing concern over rising fuel prices and fears of a potential shortage, fuel supply in Mbarara remains stable, with major stations continuing to operate without disruption.
Over the past week, pump prices in parts of Western Uganda have climbed to as high as Shs5,500 per litre, driven largely by global supply chain disruptions and ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.
The increases have sparked anxiety among motorists, with some fearing an impending supply crisis.
However, a spot check across the city indicates that key fuel stations—including TotalEnergies High Street, Shell Mbarara, as well as independent dealers such as Stabex International and Gaz—remain fully stocked, with no visible shortages.
While a few outlying areas have reported intermittent supply gaps, the central business district has maintained a consistent flow of petroleum products. Station managers say deliveries from fuel depots remain regular.
“We are receiving our usual shipments. Prices have gone up due to market forces, but we have enough stock to meet demand without long queues,” said Brian Mpiirwe, a supervisor at a Rubis Energy station along the Mbarara–Masaka Highway.
He noted that petrol prices have risen from around Shs5,100 a few weeks ago to Shs5,499 per litre, while diesel now averages Shs5,299.
“Customers have raised concerns, but pricing is beyond our control,” he added.
At TotalEnergies High Street, pump attendant Sarah Kemigisha said the steady customer flow reflects continued public confidence. “We have sufficient reserves in our underground tanks. Many customers come worried, but we assure them our supply chain is stable,” she said.
A similar situation was reported at Shell Mbarara, where attendant John Bosco confirmed that tanker deliveries remain on schedule.
“The price increase is a global issue, but we are not experiencing scarcity here. We are serving all customers as usual,” he said.
Despite the rising fuel costs, transport fares in the city have remained unchanged.
A survey at major transit points, including the Mbarara Taxi Park, found that fares to destinations such as Bushenyi, Ibanda, and Kampala are holding steady.
Taxi operators say they are absorbing the increased fuel costs to avoid losing passengers already strained by the high cost of living.
“We are buying fuel at higher prices, but if we increase fares, people will stop traveling or resort to walking. For now, we are taking the hit and hoping prices stabilize,” said Amos Twesigye, a driver on the Mbarara–Ishaka route.
Another operator, Robert Mugisha, echoed the concern: “The economy is tough for everyone. We haven’t increased fares because our customers are already struggling. Right now, it’s about survival, not profit.”
Operators admit that profit margins are shrinking, but say maintaining customer numbers is critical.
For now, stable fuel supply and unchanged transport fares are providing some relief to residents navigating the broader economic pressure.