The Government of Uganda, through the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development and the Uganda National Oil Company (UNOC), has moved to calm market concerns, confirming that the country’s fuel supply remains stable, with sufficient stocks and additional shipments already in transit.
In a statement released on April 21, 2026, authorities said routine monitoring of national fuel reserves and supply chains shows Uganda maintains adequate petroleum product availability, supported by consistent regional replenishment routes.
“As the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development and Uganda National Oil Company we confirm sufficient fuel stocks, with additional deliveries on the way to further strengthen nationwide supply”, wrote Ruth Nankabirwa on her X platform.
She has however cautioned fuel hoaders to desist from creating scarcity for benefit.
“I further caution Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) taking advantage of the global situation to cause scarcity and manipulate prices and “extort”from Ugandans as there’s no reason whatsoever for such a scenario given the current supply from our supplier”, she added.
As of April 20, Uganda held 70.5 million litres of petrol—equivalent to 19 days of cover—while diesel stocks stood at 43.2 million litres (12 days), and jet fuel at 32 million litres, offering a significantly longer 53-day buffer. These levels fall within operational thresholds, according to the government.
Crucially, supply is set to improve further. Confirmed shipments expected between May and June 2026 will inject an additional 183 million litres of petrol, 258 million litres of diesel, and 23 million litres of jet fuel into the system. This will extend national fuel cover by 49 days for petrol, 74 days for diesel, and 37 days for jet fuel—signaling strong forward planning in a market often exposed to regional logistical disruptions.
The bulk of Uganda’s fuel imports continues to arrive via the Kenyan port of Mombasa, with supplementary routes through Tanzania helping to diversify supply chains and reduce risk exposure.
Despite the reassuring outlook, the government acknowledged sporadic stock-outs at some retail stations, attributing them to localized logistical challenges affecting individual Oil Marketing Companies rather than systemic shortages.
Authorities also flagged rising pump prices in border districts such as Arua and Tororo, largely driven by cross-border demand pressures. Officials say engagement with fuel marketers is ongoing to address any unjustified price increases.
Globally, fuel prices remain sensitive to external shocks, including oil market volatility, currency fluctuations, and geopolitical developments. However, the government insists it is closely monitoring these factors to ensure domestic price stability.
Consumers have been urged to avoid panic buying, with officials emphasizing there is no immediate risk to national fuel availability. The government reiterated its commitment to energy security, market stability, and transparent communication as Uganda continues to strengthen its petroleum supply chain.