The Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS), in partnership with the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development, has intensified efforts to curb fuel adulteration and inaccurate measurements, following persistent complaints from consumers.
This follows a fuel marking and quality monitoring sensitization campaign conducted across Eastern Uganda, targeting both fuel dealers and the public on compliance and consumer protection.
Speaking during the campaign, UNBS Deputy Executive Director in charge of Management and Financial Services, Nangalama Daniel Richard Makayi, warned that eliminating fuel malpractices requires collective responsibility.
"Players in the fuel sector need to understand their role and play their part. If every actor fulfils their responsibility, we will stamp out the fuel trade vices. The support of local authorities is also critical in eliminating illegal fuel trade within communities," he noted.
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"Let us engage, collaborate, and work together to eliminate fuel adulteration for the benefit of the fuel industry and Uganda's economy," he added.
UNBS says it continues to receive complaints about inaccurate fuel dispensing, raising concerns about consumer exploitation.
The Manager of Legal Metrology at UNBS, Dr. Leatitiah Namubiru, said the bureau has stepped up verification of fuel pumps to ensure fairness in trade.
"All equipment used in fuel trade is verified to promote fair trade. Fuel dispensers are checked twice a year to ensure that consumers are not cheated and that fuel stations also operate fairly," she explained.
She urged consumers to remain vigilant and report any suspected malpractice.
Authorities also confirmed enforcement action against non-compliant operators.
The Supervisor of the Fuel Marking and Quality Monitoring Program, Peter Kitimbo, said several fuel stations have already been penalized under the Petroleum Supply (Amendment) Act, 2023.
"Penalties for fuel adulteration include fines equivalent to 10% of the product value in the tank, with additional sanctions for repeat offenders, including suspension and eventual revocation of operating licenses. In cases involving fuel dumping or smuggling, offenders are referred to the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) for further penalties related to tax evasion," Mr. Kitimbo said.
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Despite progress in reducing fuel adulteration from over 30 percent in 2000 to less than one percent in 2025, regulators say isolated cases persist and continue to threaten the integrity of the petroleum sector.
Alongside enforcement, the government is promoting cleaner energy alternatives.
During the campaign in Soroti, the Commissioner for the Petroleum Supply Department in the Ministry of Energy, Rev. Justaf Frank Tukwasibwe, launched a subsidized Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) cylinder distribution initiative.
"We thank the Government of Uganda for responding positively to the needs of the Wanainchi. Subsidizing LPG cylinders increases the adoption of LPG use as a cleaner and safer alternative to the traditional firewood and charcoal. These modern energy solutions reduce deforestation and improve indoor air quality, thus enhancing the quality of life," Rev. Tukwasibwe said.
The campaign covered several districts including Namutumba, Mbale, Budaka, Bukedea, Serere, Soroti, and Katakwi, using community outreach, radio talk shows, and engagements with local leaders.
