Uganda assures adequate fuel supply amid price fluctuations

KAMPALA, April 22 (Xinhua) — Uganda may continue to experience fluctuations in fuel pump prices due to global oil market dynamics, but the country has sufficient fuel reserves, the state-run Uganda National Oil Company (UNOC) said.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, UNOC attributed potential price variations to factors including exchange rate movements and global political developments, noting that the government is closely monitoring the situation to ensure prices remain within manageable levels.

The company said that recent fuel stockouts reported at some filling stations were caused by logistical and operational challenges affecting individual retailers, rather than a nationwide shortage.

Addressing higher pump prices in border towns such as Arua, which borders the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo and South Sudan, and Tororo, near western Kenya, UNOC said the increases were driven by naturally higher cross-border demand.

“Individual oil marketing companies have been engaged where unjustified increases in retail pricing have been noticed,” the statement said.

UNOC reassured the public that the country has sufficient fuel reserves, with additional supplies expected between May and June.

According to the company, current petrol stocks of 70.5 million liters are sufficient for 19 days, while diesel reserves of 43.2 million liters can last 12 days. Jet fuel stocks of 32 million liters are expected to last 53 days.

“The public is therefore advised to remain calm and avoid panic purchases, because there is no cause for concern regarding fuel availability. The government remains committed to ensuring energy security, market stability, and transparent communication at all times,” UNOC said. Enditem