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Zimbabweans Face Hefty Fuel Bills As Prices Rise Sharply\u2026<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n
By A Correspondent \u2013 Zimbabweans have been hit hard by a sudden spike in fuel prices, with diesel jumping from US$1.77 to US$2.05 per litre and petrol climbing from US$1.71 to US$2.17, according to the latest announcement from the Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA).<\/p>\n
The move has sparked outrage among motorists, transport operators, and businesses already grappling with rising costs.<\/p>\n
In a statement issued on Wednesday, 18 March 2026, ZERA justified the increases, citing growing cost pressures.<\/p>\n
\u201cWhile Government ensures security of fuel supply, ZERA notices that the cost pressures are piling up and these require that prices be reviewed for two weeks to avoid fuel shortages and arbitrage,\u201d it said.<\/p>\n
The regulator claimed there is enough fuel in the country, but critics argue the spike comes amid ongoing supply inefficiencies.<\/p>\n
\u201cThere are enough stocks of petroleum products in the supply chain, starting from Beira and inland storage facilities with more than three months\u2019 supply cover,\u201d ZERA added.<\/p>\n
Government efforts to mitigate the blow include approving the importation of diesel by road in addition to pipeline and rail deliveries. \u201cGovernment is taking deliberate actions to ensure that fuel brought into the country is accessed by all fuel stations, especially those in far-flung areas, and Government, through its companies, Petrotrade and NOIC, will be active in that regard,\u201d the notice said.<\/p>\n
However, many Zimbabweans fear the relief will be short-lived. The price adjustments, ZERA said, were designed to protect key sectors such as mining, agriculture, and transport.<\/p>\n
\u201cWithout Government intervention, the price of diesel would have been US$2.20 per litre,\u201d the statement admitted.<\/p>\n
While authorities promise continued monitoring and interventions, ordinary citizens face the immediate reality of heavier fuel bills, rising transport costs, and increased financial pressure.<\/p>\n
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