Business 30 April 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Energy Ministry Boosts Fuel Quality Monitoring to Over 80% Coverage Nationwide
Uganda's Ministry of Energy has expanded its fuel quality monitoring from 30% in the program's early days to over 80% today, drastically reducing adulteration to under 1%. The initiative uses chemical markers and mobile labs to ensure every litre of imported fuel meets standards. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/business/markets/we-have-built-the-capacity-to-monitor-fuel-quality-at-all-petrol-stations-says-energy-ministry--5442644
Uganda’s Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development has significantly enhanced its ability to check fuel quality at all petrol stations across the country. According to Permanent Secretary Irene Batebe, every litre of fuel on the market can now be verified at any stage of the supply chain.
The Fuel Marking and Quality Monitoring Programme, started in 2007, adds unique chemical markers to fuel at border points like Busia, Malaba, and Mutukula. These markers create a detectable ‘fingerprint’ that reveals any tampering or adulteration, such as mixing diesel with subsidized kerosene.
Implemented by the Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS) with technical support from SICPA Uganda, the system has cut adulteration rates from up to 30% in the past to less than 1% now. Compliance has jumped from 32% in 2007 to about 99% today.
Mobile laboratories conduct routine and surprise checks nationwide, using advanced tools for on-site testing. The markers are safe, used in tiny amounts with no harm to engines or the environment.
Industry players welcome the changes. Rubis Uganda’s logistics manager Sam Matovu noted quick fixes for issues like truck calibrations, while City Oil’s Luqman Mumin highlighted fairer competition without smuggling.
Non-compliant stations risk fines, license suspension, or closure, boosting not just quality but also tax revenues.
Motorists benefit from reliable fuel, better engine performance, and value for money.