Fuel Price Increase Triggers Warning to Rwandan Traders

On April 16, the Rwanda Utilities Regulatory Authority raised the price of petrol to 2,938 Rwandan francs per liter, up from 2,303 francs. The price of diesel remained unchanged at 2,205 francs per liter, as set on April 3, 2026.

Officials said the adjustment in petrol prices was influenced by rising global oil costs linked to tensions in the Middle East involving the United States and Iran, which disrupted shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz.

The tensions pushed international fuel prices upward, with oil briefly climbing from about $70 per barrel to over $100 before easing slightly after a temporary ceasefire.

Speaking to Radio/TV 10 on Monday, the permanent secretary in the Ministry of Trade and Industry, Antoine Marie Kajangwe, said the government chose not to increase diesel prices in order to protect citizens, since it is the most widely used fuel in the country.

Kajangwe said most transport in Rwanda relies on diesel, adding that traders have no reason to raise prices of locally produced goods such as potatoes, beans, maize, cassava and vegetables.

He said authorities are carrying out market inspections to ensure traders are not exploiting fuel price changes to unfairly increase prices and warned that those found guilty could face penalties.

“For example, if a sack of rice that used to cost 20,000 francs is increased to 35,000 francs without justification, that is unacceptable,” he said. “The government has measures and the authority to sanction those who increase prices excessively.”

The ministry urged the public to use resources carefully, noting that the duration of the Middle East conflict remains uncertain and could continue to affect global markets.