The Minister of Energy and Mineral Development, Ruth Nankabirwa, announced the official rollout of Uganda’s National Biofuels Blending Programme, starting with a 5% ethanol blend in petrol (E5).
The announcement was made during a press briefing aimed at highlighting the country’s energy transition efforts.
Nankabirwa noted that the initiative is a major step toward reducing Uganda’s reliance on imported fuel, promoting cleaner energy, and creating new market opportunities for local farmers and processors.
The programme aligns with Uganda’s Vision 2040 and the Biofuels Act 2020, reinforcing the
country’s commitment to a green, self-sustaining economy powered by local resources and innovation.
The ethanol used in the blending will be sourced locally, supporting the Buy Uganda Build Uganda (BUBU) policy. The minister revealed that the Ministry has licensed firms such as Kakira Sugar, Hoima Sugar, and Bukona Agro, among others, with a combined annual capacity of 78.5 million litres of ethanol.
To support the blending process, four strategic centres will be established in Busia, Malaba, Mutukula, and Entebbe, collectively handling over 110 million litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS). The incubation period for the programme will run until December 2025, allowing full operationalization of blending systems.
Nankabirwa assured Ugandans that blended fuel will remain affordable, thanks to tax exemptions on denatured ethanol and fair pricing mechanisms.
She also highlighted that fuel-grade ethanol will be promoted not just for transport, but also as a clean cooking fuel for households.
In partnership with the Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS), national quality standards for ethanol and blended fuel have been developed to ensure safety and prevent adulteration.
The Minister urged Oil Marketing Companies to accelerate their preparedness and support the nationwide rollout.
She emphasized the environmental and economic benefits of ethanol blending including improved engine efficiency, reduced emissions, and support for Uganda’s climate action goals while inviting the public and stakeholders to the formal launch of the programme in August 2025.
