The government has reassured the public that the country’s fuel supply remains stable, with sufficient stocks and additional shipments already scheduled to reinforce national reserves in the coming weeks.
In a statement issued by the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development in collaboration with the Uganda National Oil Company (UNOC), officials confirmed that routine monitoring of fuel stocks and supply chains shows Uganda’s petroleum supply system remains reliable and well-managed.
As of 20 April 2026, the country’s available fuel stocks stand at:
- Petrol: 70.5 million litres, equivalent to 19 days of cover
- Diesel: 43.2 million litres, equivalent to 12 days of cover
- Jet Fuel: 32.0 million litres, equivalent to 53 days of cover
Authorities noted that these levels fall within normal operational thresholds and are being reinforced by confirmed shipments currently in transit.
Deliveries are expected between early May and June 2026 through regional supply routes, including Kenya’s main port of Mombasa and alternative ports in Tanzania.
The incoming shipments are projected to significantly boost supply, adding:
- 183 million litres of petrol (49 additional days of cover)
- 258 million litres of diesel (74 additional days of cover)
- 23 million litres of jet fuel (37 additional days of cover)
Officials say this forward planning underscores the government’s commitment to ensuring uninterrupted fuel availability across the country.
The Ministry, through UNOC, is working closely with licensed Oil Marketing Companies and regional partners to coordinate logistics and ensure timely distribution of fuel nationwide.
The assurance comes on the back of wide national coverage of fuel shortages in several parts of the country over the last few days with the price of premium petrol at major outlet Shell going for as much as Shs5,500 a litre in most part of the country.
The government acknowledged there are "isolated cases" of fuel shortages at some retail stations.
These disruptions have been attributed to logistical challenges affecting specific Oil Marketing Companies rather than a nationwide supply deficit.
Authorities also addressed reports of rising fuel prices in border towns such as Arua and Tororo, explaining that these increases are largely driven by heightened cross-border demand.
The government has engaged relevant companies in cases where price hikes appear unjustified.
While fuel prices may fluctuate due to global oil market trends, exchange rate movements, and geopolitical factors, the government emphasized that it continues to closely monitor the situation to maintain affordability and stability.
The public has been urged to remain calm and avoid panic buying, with officials stressing that there is no cause for concern regarding fuel availability.
The government reaffirmed its commitment to energy security, efficient market operations, and transparent communication with the public.