Transport fares, commodity prices rise as schools open

Transport fares and prices of goods in shops in Kabarole and Mubende districts have risen this week as students reported back for the first term.

A mini-survey by the Daily Monitor at different shops and taxi stages in Fort Portal and Mubende towns on Monday showed that many commodities and transport fares were raised due to increased demand.
Mr John Kusemererwa, a driver on the Kyenjojo-Fort Portal Road, said the fares have risen from Shs5,000 to Shs6000, while those from Kahunge to Fort Portal have risen from Shs6,000 to Shs10,000.

Mr Richard Baguma, a boda boda operator at Mpanga Market Stage, said transport from Kabarole Town to Nyakasura School had increased from Shs3,000 to Shs10,000, while those to Kyegobe had risen from Shs2,000 to Shs4,000.

At some stationery shops, prices of books, reams of paper and pens have also slightly increased. Other traders dealing in mattresses, blankets, cases and others said due to the high demand, the prices have also increased.

In Mubende Town, taxi drivers have also increased transport fares. According to the Utoda chairperson, Mr Isma Kyeyune, transport from Mubende to Mityana has risen from Shs6,000 to Shs10,000, while that from Mubende to Kampala has risen from Shs13,000 to Shs15000.

Reported By Bridget Karungi, Amanda Kawaisolya & Godfrey Mayengo