Transport fares hiked in Masindi as fuel prices soar
He noted that riders who previously charged Shs2,000 per kilometre are now charging Shs3,000, adding that the situation is being experienced across the country.
Masindi: Transport fares in Masindi District have increased following a sharp rise in fuel prices, affecting both boda boda riders and taxi operators.
Currently, petrol prices in Masindi Town range between Shs5,300 and Shs5,800 per litre, while diesel is selling between Shs5,200 and Shs5,400.
Jonan Wobusobozi, Chairperson of the Masindi Motorcycle Operators Association (MAMAO), said the surge in fuel prices has forced riders to raise fares in order to remain operational.
He noted that riders who previously charged Shs2,000 per kilometre are now charging Shs3,000, adding that the situation is being experienced across the country.
Denis Kyakuha, Chairperson of the Masindi Taxi Drivers Association, said taxi operators have not yet adjusted fares but are consulting with their counterparts in Kampala on the next course of action.
He explained that operators are currently earning little to no profit due to high fuel costs and warned that fares could soon increase if the situation persists.
At present, taxi fares remain at about Shs20,000 from Masindi to Kampala and Shs10,000 to Hoima, Kigumba, and Biiso in Buliisa District.
Dickson Mugisa, Manager of a fuel station in Masindi Town, attributed the rising fuel prices to global factors, including ongoing conflicts in the Middle East.
He warned that prices could rise further due to a proposed Shs200 tax per litre of fuel, as well as potential global supply disruptions such as instability around the Strait of Hormuz.
“Even if the war stopped today, the situation would not normalize because of the planned fuel tax, meaning prices may not drop,” he said.
Meanwhile, boda boda riders say the rising fuel costs are severely affecting their livelihoods.
Joseph Tumusiime, a rider operating at Travellers Corner in Masindi Town, said many riders are no longer making profits and are struggling to meet loan repayments, risking the loss of their motorcycles.
Tadeo Manigamukama, another rider, noted that the fuel price increases come at a time when incomes are already low, further straining the sector.
“We are appealing for government intervention because we are getting no profits from the industry,” he said.
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