Travellers heading from Kampala to different parts of western Uganda are set to dig deeper into their pockets after bus operators announced new transport fares starting November 14, 2026. The adjustment affects several popular routes connecting the capital to towns in western and south-western Uganda.

The new fares were announced by the United Bus Owners Association in a notice dated November 13, 2026. The revised schedule covers routes to Mbarara, Kabale, Kisoro, Fort Portal, Kasese and Hoima, among other destinations served by operators travelling to the western region.

Under the new arrangement, passengers travelling from Kampala to Mbarara will pay Shs40,000, while those heading to Kabale will part with Shs50,000. Travellers going to Kisoro will face a fare of Shs60,000, making it one of the most expensive destinations on the revised list.

Other affected routes include Kampala to Fort Portal, where passengers will pay Shs45,000, and Kampala to Kasese, which will cost Shs55,000. Those travelling to Hoima will pay Shs30,000 under the new fare arrangement.

The changes come at a time when transport operators are facing increasing pressure from high fuel prices and other operational expenses. Diesel prices at some Kampala fuel stations have reportedly approached Shs7,500 per litre, while petrol prices have crossed Shs7,000, putting additional pressure on businesses that depend heavily on fuel.

Although international crude oil prices have recently declined and the Ugandan shilling has recorded gains, local motorists have not yet experienced significant relief at the pump. Transport operators also have to contend with the cost of spare parts, vehicle maintenance and other expenses involved in running long-distance bus services.

The latest adjustment follows similar fare increases by bus operators serving northern Uganda, where passengers travelling from Lira to Kampala saw ordinary bus fares rise from Shs30,000 to Shs40,000 effective November 1, 2026. The western Uganda revision is therefore another development likely to affect people who regularly depend on public transport for long-distance journeys.

With the end-of-year holiday season approaching, the increased fares are expected to affect travel budgets for families, students, workers and other passengers planning journeys upcountry. Travellers are now advised to prepare for the revised charges before making their trips, as the new prices take effect immediately.