The Rwanda Utilities Regulatory Authority (RURA) has announced a significant rise in fuel prices, highlighting a rapid increase driven by global market disruptions. Within just two weeks, the price of petrol has risen by 635 Rwandan francs per liter.
According to an official statement released on April 16, 2026, the new fuel prices took effect on April 17, 2026, at 6:00 a.m. Under the revised pricing, petrol now costs 2,938 Frw per liter, while diesel remains unchanged at 2,205 Frw per liter.
This adjustment follows a previous increase announced on April 3, 2026, when petrol prices rose from 1,989 Frw to 2,303 Frw per liter. The cumulative increase over a short two-week period underscores the volatility of the global oil market and its direct impact on Rwanda’s economy.
RURA attributed the sharp rise to major shifts in international markets, particularly tensions in the Middle East. The conflict involving the United States and Israel targeting Iran has disrupted oil supply routes. Notably, the closure of the strategic Strait of Hormuz a key passage for global oil shipments has significantly influenced worldwide fuel prices.
As a result of these changes, public transport fares have also been revised. In the City of Kigali, the base fare has increased to 59.28 Frw per passenger per kilometer, while in other provinces, it now stands at 41.58 Frw per kilometer. These transport fare adjustments came into effect on April 6, 2026.
Despite the upward trend in fuel costs, RURA noted that diesel prices have been maintained to cushion public transport operators, goods transportation, and broader economic activities from further strain. The authority emphasized that it will continue to monitor global fuel price trends and implement timely measures, including ensuring compliance with the approved prices across all fuel stations nationwide.
