Uganda’s fuel stocks hold steady amid global disruption

KAMPALA - As tensions in the Middle East continue to disrupt one of the world’s most critical oil routes, Uganda’s energy officials are urging calm.

Despite the strain on global supply chains—particularly through the Strait of Hormuz, which handles roughly a fifth of global oil flows—Uganda’s fuel reserves remain stable, at least for now.

In a joint statement released by the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development and the Uganda National Oil Company (UNOC), officials said the country’s current stock levels are sufficient to meet short-term demand.

As of March 27, Uganda held approximately 81 million litres of petrol, 80 million litres of diesel, and 18.5 million litres of Jet A-1 fuel. In practical terms, that translates to about three weeks’ worth of petrol and diesel, and up to a month’s supply of aviation fuel—enough to carry the country through to the end of April.

“Uganda’s fuel stock levels and the inland supply chain remain stable and sufficient to meet the short-term national demand,” the statement said.

Uganda is heavily reliant on imported petroleum products, and the official statement of reassurance comes at a critical moment.

Disruptions in global shipping routes often ripple quickly into local markets, raising fears of shortages, price spikes, and panic buying. For now, those fears appear contained.

Officials attribute this stability to careful planning and diversified sourcing, which have allowed Uganda to maintain supply even as traditional routes face uncertainty.

The government also moved to address what it described as “misrepresentations being circulated on social media,” warning that such claims risk creating unnecessary panic.

Behind the scenes, however, vigilance remains high. Authorities say they are closely monitoring external pressures, including fluctuations in global oil prices and foreign exchange rates—factors that could still influence pump prices in the coming weeks.