Kasese District is facing a worsening fuel shortage that has disrupted transport, strained business operations, and triggered growing public safety concerns as residents increasingly store petrol in their homes using jerrycans.
Several petrol stations across the district have reportedly run dry, leaving long queues at the few outlets still in operation. At those stations, fuel prices have risen sharply, with some dealers selling a litre at nearly 10,000 shillings, almost double the normal rate.
The scarcity has sparked panic buying, with many residents, including boda-boda riders, purchasing fuel in containers and taking it home for storage. Authorities warn that this coping mechanism is creating a dangerous situation in residential areas.
Kasese Resident District Commissioner Lt. Joe Walusimbi has issued a strong warning to both the public and fuel station operators over the growing practice, saying it significantly increases the risk of fire outbreaks.
“We are likely to see many accidents resulting from petrol if this trend continues. People are taking fuel home in jerrycans, yet they live in single rooms where they cook, sleep, and do everything. This is very dangerous,” he said.
He noted that boda-boda riders are among the most affected, as many rely on fuel for daily operations and are now storing it inside their homes due to shortages and high prices.
“Some of our brothers and sisters are being reckless. Carrying petrol into homes is not safe at all. We still need these people alive, and they must prioritize safety,” he added.
The RDC has directed fuel station operators to stop selling petrol to customers carrying jerrycans, urging stricter control over distribution during the shortage.
“Petrol stations should not accept selling fuel in jerrycans. If customers are tired, they can take a little and return later. Taking fuel home now is not good,” he said.
He also expressed concern over the rising fuel prices, calling on dealers to act responsibly and avoid exploiting the situation for excessive profit.
“Much as they need to make profit, they should be sympathetic to the people. This is a difficult time, and we must act responsibly,” he noted.
Local authorities say they are engaging relevant stakeholders to stabilise fuel supply in the district, although no immediate resolution has been announced. They have urged residents to remain calm and avoid unsafe storage practices while the shortage persists.
Officials warn that the combination of flammable fuel storage in crowded housing areas and ongoing scarcity could lead to serious accidents if precautions are not observed.
As Kasese waits for normal supply to resume, leaders are emphasising that safety must take priority over convenience, warning that a single fire incident could have devastating consequences in densely populated settlements.