Uganda has moved to calm fears over possible fuel shortages, assuring the public that petroleum supplies remain steady despite rising tension in the Middle East, a key region in global oil transport.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development together with the Uganda National Oil Company said firm contingency plans are in place to protect the country from any disruption linked to instability in international shipping routes.
The reassurance follows concerns about possible interference with cargoes passing through the Strait of Hormuz between Iran and Oman.
Energy Minister Ruth Nankabirwa Ssentamu said she wished to reassure all Ugandans that “our fuel supply remains stable despite the recent developments in the Middle East.”
She added that together with the Uganda National Oil Company and supply partner Vitol, authorities are “closely monitoring the situation and have put in place contingency measures to ensure uninterrupted deliveries.”
Officials confirmed that fuel cargoes scheduled for March 2026 are proceeding as planned.
“Notedly, scheduled fuel cargo deliveries for March 2026 remain on course with contingency plans to avert any immediate impact,” the statement read. With the supply chain intact, the ministry said pump prices are expected to remain relatively stable.
In a separate press release dated March 2, 2026, the ministry and UNOC addressed public concerns about global supply routes, especially those that pass through the Strait of Hormuz, a major oil transit corridor. They emphasized that Uganda will continue to have a reliable supply of petroleum products despite the global uncertainty.
Authorities said UNOC and its partner Vitol are closely tracking developments as they unfold and are taking all necessary steps to prevent any interruption of petroleum imports into the country. The statement further noted that the supply partner does not depend on a single region for sourcing fuel.
According to the release, the company will continue working with alternative supply sources and routes for cargoes initially planned from affected regions, ensuring deliveries continue without disruption. The ministry urged the public and market players to “remain calm” as coordination with partners and stakeholders continues to guarantee steady supply.
Officials stressed that maintaining energy security remains a top priority, especially given the close link between fuel availability, transport, trade, and overall economic activity. They said stable supply should help keep pump prices relatively the same in the coming weeks.
The government also reaffirmed its commitment to carrying out its mandate under the Petroleum Supply Act and to safeguarding national energy security. It pledged continued transparency and open communication during the period of global uncertainty.
Energy analysts have warned that unrest in key shipping corridors can influence global prices and supply chains. However, Ugandan authorities maintained that advance planning and diversified sourcing arrangements have reduced the risk of domestic shortages.
As international events continue to unfold, energy officials said they will sustain close monitoring and coordination with supply partners to ensure uninterrupted deliveries of petroleum products across the country.
