Rising fuel prices are placing heavy pressure on transport operators and residents in Kabale District, with boda boda riders warning of shrinking incomes and commuters facing higher fares.
The surge has been linked to escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, particularly the US-Israel conflict with Iran, which reportedly led to disruptions in global oil transit through the Strait of Hormuz -- a key route for international crude shipments.
In Uganda, petrol is now selling between Shs 5,200 and Shs 8,000 per litre, while diesel ranges between Shs 5,149 and Shs 6,000. The increases have been attributed to disrupted supply chains and heightened regional demand from neighbouring countries including Kenya, South Sudan, and DR Congo.
Despite government assurances of stability in fuel supply, shortages are being reported in several areas. In some parts of Kabale, boda boda riders are buying fuel at as high as Shs 7,000 to Shs 8,000 per litre, with long queues observed at fuel stations as residents fill jerrycans in anticipation of further price increases.
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Sunday Remegio, a boda boda rider in Kabale Town, said the situation has significantly affected customer demand as transport fares continue to rise.
"Customers are not adjusting to the new fare structure. Trips we used to charge Shs 1,000 now cost between Shs 2,000 and Shs 3,000, but many passengers refuse to pay. We are calling on government to intervene and stabilise the situation," he said.
Another rider, Amin Mushabe, said the rising fuel costs have made it difficult to sustain daily operations and household needs.
"When you fuel with Shs 10,000, you don't get that money back. Business has gone down. Many customers now walk. It is hard to sustain our livelihoods and support our families," he said.
Residents have also expressed concern over the ripple effect on the cost of living.
Barnabas Tugumisirize, a resident of Kabale Town, said transport disruptions have contributed to rising prices of essential goods.
"Many drivers have parked their vehicles. Food and other essentials have become expensive. The cost of living is worse, especially for low-income households. Government should invest in national fuel reserves to cushion the country against such crises," he said.
At Chello Service Station along the Kabale-Katuna Road in Kitumba Sub-county, manager Geresem Tumwebembeze said fuel supplies are now being sourced from Tanzania, a longer and more costly route compared to previous deliveries from Kenya.
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"Petrol is retailing at about Shs 7,500 to Shs 8,000 per litre, while diesel stands at Shs 5,800. Supplies are now sourced from Tanzania. It is a longer and more costly route compared to when we got fuel from Kenya," he said.
As prices continue to rise, both transport operators and consumers in Kabale say they are struggling to adapt, with fears that prolonged shortages could further strain livelihoods and local businesses.
