Kampala Bus Operators Raise Fares, Warn of Further Hikes Ahead of Festive Season

Commuters traveling from Kampala to various upcountry destinations are facing higher transport costs following a recent wave of fare adjustments by bus operators. The hike comes on the heels of a sharp increase in fuel prices, which have climbed from roughly Shs4,000 to Shs7,000 per litre, severely impacting profit margins and operational viability across the transport sector.

Nelson Sekandi, the General Manager of Namayiba Bus Terminal, explained that the November adjustments are necessary to cushion companies against escalating expenses for fuel and equipment. However, he cautioned that stability is unlikely as operators prepare for even steeper fare increases when demand peaks during the December festive season.

On the northern routes, the Northern Route Bus Association implemented new pricing effective November 2, 2026. Travelers heading to Kamdini and Karuma are now charged Shs35,000, while journeys to Gulu cost Shs40,000 for ordinary buses and Shs50,000 for executive services. Fares have similarly risen to Shs60,000 for Kitgum, Shs70,000 for Pader, and Shs105,000 for Kaabong.

In response to these economic pressures, the Uganda Transport Operators Federation (UTOF) is organizing consultations to review long-distance pricing structures. Mustafa Mayambala, the UTOF Vice Chairperson for Administration, noted that without strategic adjustments, operators risk running businesses without returns under the current fuel burden.

The impending changes threaten to make Christmas and New Year journeys considerably more expensive for families returning to their villages. As industry stakeholders deliberate on future pricing, travelers are urged to budget carefully for upcoming trips.

Read more details on the original Nile Post.