Drivers (public transporters) and boda boda riders in Adjumani district have started crying over the rapid rise in the cost of fuel at most fuel stations.
They say the situation is choking their livelihoods and pushing many into financial distress.
Drivers operating at major stages say the sharp increase in fuel prices has made daily operations difficult, with some struggling to meet loan obligations and basic expenses.
Iceta Denish, chairman of Gulu Stage Drivers’ Association, said: “We are really facing a problem with fuel. Right now, a litre of fuel is costing shs8,000. It has made the movement of vehicles very hard.
“There are other drivers of ours paying loans. My appeal to the Sacco and bank managers: try to understand the situation right now that we are facing.”
The rising costs have also strained relationships with passengers, who are reportedly unwilling to adjust fares despite the surge in fuel prices.
Vuni Charles, a driver said: “We are facing a lot of challenges, the fuel price has gone high and customers don’t accept paying shs30,000 to Gulu yet some of us are having loans with banks and SACCO.”
Financial institutions are also feeling the pressure, as the situation threatens loan repayment among transport operators.
Maku Patrick, general manager of Adjumani town council SACCO noted that the complaint might be true.
“And it will also affect our earnings as a SACCO in terms of loan repayment and to boda boda and local transporters within. Please, I’m requesting you to work within the means.
“Make sure you comply with your obligations. Work within your means, don’t sit back because of the fuel prices,” Maku advised.
Fuel dealers say they too are grappling with the same uncertainties, pointing to global factors influencing the price hike.
Aniku Vicky, Manager at Rock Fuel Station, Adjumani, said: “We have also experienced that same problem. Now, as Ugandans, we all know what is going on all over the world on the side of Iran.”
He added: “But, our current situation in Adjumani, as a Rock Fuel Station, we have come up with an idea – to have some small quantity of fuel reserved especially for those who have paid their money with us.
“I’m not so sure whether the fuel prices will come down. What we are expecting is that fuel might continue to go higher and higher but gradually.”
As fuel prices continue to rise, transporters in Adjumani fear the worst may still lie ahead, with many calling for urgent interventions to prevent the sector from grinding to a halt.
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