The Rwanda Utilities Regulatory Authority (RURA) has announced new fuel prices, with petrol increasing significantly while diesel prices remain unchanged.
According to a statement released on April 16, 2026, a litre of petrol has risen from Rwf 2,303 to Rwf 2,938, marking an increase of Rwf 635. Diesel, however, remains steady at Rwf 2,205 per litre.
The new prices will take effect on April 17, 2026, at 6:00 AM.
RURA said the adjustments are based on changes in the international petroleum market, as well as government measures aimed at cushioning the impact of global fuel price fluctuations.
The regulator noted that diesel prices were kept unchanged in order to support public transport, goods transportation, and overall economic activity.
“Due to measures taken to mitigate the impact of these changes, the price of diesel has not been adjusted to support public transport, freight services, and economic activities in general,” the statement read.
RURA urged residents to plan their travel efficiently, use public transport where possible, consider carpooling, and avoid unnecessary trips in order to reduce fuel consumption.
The authority also stated that it will continue monitoring global and regional fuel market trends, ensuring smooth supply and service delivery across the country.
The latest adjustment comes just two weeks after fuel prices were last revised on April 3, 2026, when petrol increased to Rwf 2,303 from Rwf 1,989, while diesel rose to Rwf 2,205 from Rwf 1,948.
Earlier, on March 4, 2026, petrol was priced at Rwf 1,989 and diesel at Rwf 1,948.
The global rise in fuel prices has been partly linked to ongoing geopolitical tensions involving the United States, Israel, and Iran, which have disrupted global supply routes, including the strategic Strait of Hormuz that handles about 20% of the world’s oil shipments.
Following failed negotiations to end the conflict, global oil prices surged above $100 per barrel.
On April 13, when Asian markets opened, Brent crude rose by 8.5% to $102.37 per barrel, while West Texas Intermediate (WTI) climbed by 9% to $105.34 per barrel.
