The government led by President Emmerson Mnangagwa is exploring ways to bring down fuel prices, including possible tax cuts, following a sharp increase driven by conflict in the Middle East.
The ongoing war involving the United States, Israel and Iran has disrupted global oil supplies. Iran’s closure of the Strait of Hormuz — a major shipping route for about 20 percent of the world’s oil — has worsened the situation.
Zimbabwe has not been spared. Fuel prices recently climbed to US$2.17 per litre for petrol and US$2.05 for diesel. The increases have pushed up transport fares and the cost of basic goods. In Harare, kombi fares have risen sharply, with some passengers now paying as much as US$2 per trip.
Authorities say they are considering measures to cushion citizens. Presidential spokesperson George Charamba, writing under his Jamwanda moniker, said government had taken note of public concerns and consultations were underway.
“YOUR REQUEST THAT YOUR GOVERNMENT LOOKS AT REDUCING THE FUEL-BASED TAX TO BRING IMMEDIATE RELIEF TO THE HARD-PRESSED CITIZENRY. I hear you loud and clear and will faithfully transmit,” Charamba wrote. In a separate post, he added that “good tidings are coming both on the fuel front and salaries for civil servants.”
The rising fuel costs are already affecting daily life and the broader economy. Some workers are struggling to afford transport, leading to absenteeism in workplaces. At Sally Mugabe Central Hospital in Harare, nurses went on strike on Friday, demanding salary reviews to keep up with the rising cost of living.
Health workers say their current earnings are no longer enough to meet basic needs. They are calling for transport and risk allowances, as well as broader salary adjustments.
Government has defended the fuel price increases, saying they are a result of global market forces and supply disruptions. Analysts warn that continued instability in key oil routes like the Strait of Hormuz could keep prices high.
Charamba said authorities are aware of the pressure on workers and confirmed that a review of civil servants’ salaries is on the way.
“A review of wages and salaries was due anyway; it is coming, certainly by this April,” he said.
