Rising fuel prices are triggering a sharp increase in commodity and transport costs across Uganda, straining households and businesses.
In major towns and urban centers,Residents are now paying significantly more for taxis and boda bodas,while traders say the cost of ferrying goods from markets has doubled in recent weeks. The ripple effect is visible in food prices, with staples like maize flour, sugar ,soap, rice and cooking oil climbing as transporters pass on the added fuel costs to consumers.
The situation is compounded by supply gaps. Some fuel stations in different cities have temporarily closed or run out of stock, citing inconsistent deliveries and high procurement costs. Motorists report long queues at operational pumps, with many forced to buy from informal dealers at inflated prices.
Economic analysts warn that sustained high fuel prices risk slowing down post global pandemic recovery(Covid) especially for small businesses and low-income earners.
Transport associations are now calling for urgent government intervention, including tax reviews and stabilization measures, to cushion the public.
The pressure is expected to intensify unless supply stabilizes and global oil prices ease.
