Uganda: Residual fuel shortages likely nationwide through end of Jan. due to supply disruptions

Event

Residual fuel shortages are likely nationwide through the end of Jan. following supply disruptions at the shared border with Kenya. The Ugandan government announced Jan. 15 that fuel supplies ran as normal until Jan. 1 when officials required mandatory COVID-19 testing at entry points triggering truck drivers to strike and slow traffic. As of Jan. 17, fuel supplies have largely resumed. However, supply disruptions have caused spikes in prices and increased demand at fuel stations. The most affected area is the Hoima District. Officials announced that prices should not exceed UGX 5,000 per liter while fuel dealers have warned the public of price gouging.

Queues at fuel stations will likely persist; public transportation services might be affected. Related protests denouncing the situation remain possible, notably if residual shortage, high prices, and delays at gas stations persist; participants could block major road routes.

Advice

Plan for possible fuel shortages and queues at gas stations. Confirm all ground transport services before travel. Avoid all demonstrations as a precaution. Heed all advice of security personnel.