UNBS Urges Public Vigilance in Fuel Purchase to Combat Adulteration

he Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS) has issued a strong advisory, urging the public to procure fuel solely from authorized outlets to avoid the consumption of adulterated fuel.

Acting Executive Director of UNBS, Daniel Richard Makayi Nangalama, highlighted concerns over the sale of fuel in containers such as jerrycans and bottles, emphasizing the prevalence of adulteration and tampered quantities. This practice not only poses a threat to vehicle engines but also results in unfair deals for consumers.

Nangalama made these assertions during a Fuel Marking and Quality Monitoring Program (FMQP) awareness session organized jointly by the Ugandan government, the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development (MEMD), and UNBS, held in Mbale City.

The initiative aims to ensure the quality of petroleum products across Uganda’s supply chain, focusing on recent operations in Eastern Uganda sub-regions, including Busoga, Bugwere, Teso, Sebei, Bukedi, and Bugisu.

Nangalama reported a significant decrease in fuel adulteration, dropping from 30% in 2015 to less than 0.5% this year. However, he underscored that compliance in the Eastern region remains an area of concern. He stressed the necessity for fuel vendors to discontinue these unethical activities and encouraged consumers to remain cautious when purchasing fuel.

Fuel adulteration involves the illicit introduction of foreign substances into fuel, compromising its quality and quantity, which is detrimental to both vehicle engines and consumer interests.

The government introduced the fuel marking program to counter this issue, marking all fuel designated for local consumption at entry points. The program employs mobile testing laboratories for on-site sampling and quality checks at retail stations. It also verifies and calibrates fuel pumps to ensure accurate measurements and fair dealings for consumers.

Sylvia Kirabo, Principal Public Relations Officer, emphasized the importance of refraining from fuel adulteration practices, especially as the festive season approaches. Motorists and the public are advised to exercise caution when purchasing fuel from different stations to avoid falling victim to deceptive practices.

Consumers are encouraged to scrutinize pump authenticity by checking for VALID UNBS stickers, indicating UNBS verification and calibration for accurate measurements. Additionally, they should observe the pump’s sales indicators for any inconsistencies and verify the displayed prices before refueling.

The UNBS and associated authorities are working diligently to maintain fuel quality and safeguard consumers against adulterated products. Mutual vigilance from both fuel vendors and consumers is essential in combating this issue.