Uganda says expecting new shipment of fuel this Wednesday

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 ENERGY 

The Ugandan government has said it is expecting a fresh delivery of 119 million litres of fuel mid-this week, which will boost the national fuel reserves.

The vessel carrying the fuel is expected to arrive at Mombasa Port in Kenya on Wednesday (April 15), the Uganda National Oil Company (UNOC) said on Tuesday.

"This shipment will further strengthen national fuel reserves and ensure continued availability across the country," said the company in a post on social media platform X.

It also offered assurances to the public that the supply of petroleum products across Uganda remains "stable and secure".

Uganda imports nearly all its refined petroleum products (petrol, diesel) primarily from the Middle East, with the majority coming from the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Saudi Arabia, and Oman.

The primary import route is the 'Northern Corridor' through Kenya's Mombasa Port (90 percent).

The Middle East war has significantly disrupted global fuel markets, causing oil prices to surge by over 60% due to shipping bottlenecks in the Strait of Hormuz. 

This disruption has reduced global oil flows, leading to higher petrol, diesel, and natural gas prices globally, with severe impacts on energy-importing nations.

'Avoid panic buying'

Through UNOC and the energy ministry, the Ugandan government said it continues to actively manage supply chains and maintain adequate stock levels to meet national demand.

"Regarding pricing, the public is informed that pump prices are influenced by global market dynamics, including ongoing geopolitical developments such as the conflicts involving the United States-Israel and Iran. These external factors continue to impact international oil prices," said UNOC.

"However, Government wishes to assure all Ugandans that pricing trends are being closely monitored, and measures are in place to ensure that fuel prices remain within reasonable and manageable levels.

"We encourage the public to remain calm and avoid panic buying, as supply remains steady and sufficient."