The Government of Uganda has officially launched the National Bio-fuels Blending Program, marking a major milestone in the country’s push for cleaner energy and reduced fuel imports. Effective July 1, 2025, it will be mandatory to mix 5% locally produced ethanol into all petrol sold across the country.
The announcement was made on July 1, 2025, by the Minister of Energy and Mineral Development, Hon Ruth Nankabirwa Ssentamu, during a press briefing at the Uganda Media Centre.
“Starting today, all petrol will be blended with 5% locally sourced ethanol,” Minister Nankabirwa declared. “This is a landmark step in our journey towards energy independence and environmental sustainability.”
According to the minister, the ethanol used in the blending process will be extracted from locally grown crops such as cassava, sugarcane, and maize, a move that opens up new market opportunities and enhances value addition for Ugandan farmers.
“This will reduce our reliance on imported fuels, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and support thousands of smallholder farmers across the country,” she stated.
”The Bio-fuels Blending Programme is not just about introducing a new fuel type; it is a cornerstone of President Yoweri Museveni’s vision for a sustainable, integrated, and self-reliant Ugandan economy,” Nankabirwa added.
The initiative aligns with Uganda’s Vision 2040, aiming to create jobs along the entire energy value chain from farming and ethanol processing to logistics and fuel distribution. Currently, licensed blending hubs in Busia, Malaba, Mutukula, and Entebbe are equipped to handle over 110 million litres of petrol annually ensuring a consistent rollout of the new fuel blend.
To ensure a smooth transition, Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) have been given until December 2025 to fully comply with the 5% ethanol blending requirement.
Meanwhile, the Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS) has introduced new fuel quality and engine safety standards to safeguard consumers and vehicles.
To promote affordability and uptake, the government has also kept ethanol tax-exempt, minimizing cost burdens on consumers and fuel suppliers.
A national rollout of the new blended fuel is scheduled for August 2025. The minister called on all industry players, motorists, and citizens to embrace the shift toward homegrown, sustainable, and affordable energy solutions.
“We are proud to take this bold step. It is not just about fuel; it is about our farmers, our environment, and our future,” Hon Nankabirwa concluded.
