Northern Bus Operators Raise Fares as Fuel Costs Bite

What the report says

Bus operators in northern Uganda have raised fares on routes linking towns such as Lira, Apac and Aduku to Kampala after citing higher fuel and operating costs. The revised prices, issued by the United Bus Owners Association (Northern), took effect on November 1 and apply to several services from the region to the capital.

According to the report, the decision followed consultations among transport stakeholders, including vehicle owners and some taxi association leaders. Bernard Anyeko Masango, speaking for the Northern Uganda Drivers and Transport Network Association, said the move was meant to help operators cope with fuel increases and other expenses such as spare parts and tyres. The new fare chart sets Lira-Kampala travel at Shs50,000 for executive buses and Shs40,000 for ordinary services, while Apac-Kampala passengers will pay Shs60,000 and Shs50,000 respectively. Other routes from Aduku, Kamdini, Karuma, Bweyale and Kigumba also saw increases.

The article says operators expect the fares to be reviewed if fuel prices fall. It also quotes drivers describing sharp rises in the cost of fuel for return trips, alongside damage from rough roads, especially on the Gulu-Elegu corridor. Bus managers said the previous fares were no longer enough to cover fuel alone, let alone wages and maintenance, leaving some companies operating at a loss.

The adjustment highlights how transport costs in northern Uganda remain sensitive to fuel prices and road conditions, both of which can affect everyday travel costs for passengers and the finances of bus and taxi operators.