By Joseph Kiggundu
The Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development, working together with the Uganda National Oil Company, has reassured Ugandans that the country’s fuel supply remains stable despite disruptions caused by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
In a joint update issued on March 27, 2026, Dr. Patricia Litho, the Assistant Commissioner for Communications at the Ministry of Energy and mineral development said that although global oil transportation has been affected—particularly through the Strait of Hormuz, a key passage for roughly 20 percent of the world’s oil—Uganda has sufficient reserves to meet its immediate needs.
“ current national stocks stand at about 81 million litres of petrol, 80 million litres of diesel, and 18.5 million litres of Jet A-1 fuel. These reserves are projected to sustain the country’s demand for several weeks, extending into the end of April” Litho said.
Meanwhile,Mr. Tony Otoa the Chief Corporate Affairs Officer, Uganda National Oil Company Limited (UNOC) confirmed that additional fuel shipments are already in the pipeline. He said deliveries are expected via Kenya’s Mombasa port, as well as through Tanzania’s ports of Dar es Salaam, Tanga, and Mtwara to strengthen supply routes.
“The incoming consignments will significantly boost national fuel reserves, adding substantial volumes of petrol, diesel, and aviation fuel, and extending stock coverage further into the coming months” said Otoa.
Officials emphasized that Uganda’s fuel supply chain remains resilient, supported by diversified sourcing strategies that reduce dependence on the Middle East. They urged players in the transport, aviation, and business sectors—as well as the general public—to remain calm, noting that supply continuity is being maintained.
However, the government acknowledged that external factors such as foreign exchange fluctuations and global oil prices could still impact pump prices locally, and said these will continue to be closely monitored.
Both the Ministry and UNOC also cautioned the public against misinformation circulating on social media, stressing that Uganda’s energy security is stable and under control.
