ZIMBABWE has begun trials to blend diesel with ethanol in a bid to cut fuel costs, but motorists continue to pay more than regional neighbours despite recent price reductions.
Energy and Power Development Minister July Moyo confirmed on 3 May 2026 that Green Fuel is conducting the experiments, with no rollout date set.
“We have started experiments and these are being conducted by Green Fuel. At the moment there are no timelines on when this will begin. Trials have begun and the results will determine the way forward,” Moyo told News Online.
He said new sugarcane plantations in Chisumbanje, Mwenezi and Chiredzi would support future blending.
Officials are testing blending ratios, engine compatibility and long term viability. Globally, ethanol is widely used in petrol but rarely in diesel, with limited trials in public transport fleets.
Moyo linked the move to global fuel price increases following Middle East tensions earlier in 2026.
“This is actually a good initiative, as it helps lower the price of the commodity,” he said.
He cited petrol blending as an example, where the shift from E5 to E20 reduced prices by US$0.15 to US$2.08 per litre. Diesel eased from US$2.11 to US$2.09.
However, Zimbabwe’s pump prices remain above the region. Zambia reduced fuel taxes from 31 March 2026, with petrol at US$1.42 and diesel at US$1.56. Namibia and South Africa have also introduced temporary relief measures.
Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority chief executive officer Edington Mazambani said ZERA will assess the safety and quality of any diesel ethanol blend before approval.
“Our role is to ensure any new fuel product meets national standards and does not damage engines. The trials must prove technical and commercial viability first,” Mazambani said.
Green Fuel spokesperson Nicole Mollet said the company is testing the blend under strict monitoring.
“We are running controlled trials on stationary engines and selected fleet vehicles to assess performance, emissions and fuel consumption. Early results are promising, but we need more data before recommending commercial use,” Mollet said.
Economist Professor Gift Mugano said blending alone will not resolve Zimbabwe’s fuel costs.
“The major contribution of the cost of the fuel, 80 percent, is the cost of imported fuel plus shipment costs. Before Government added levies and taxes, our fuel price will already be more than regional prices in Zambia, Botswana, South Africa,” Mugano said.
He called for procurement reforms and greater competition in the fuel sector.
Harare motorist Takudzwa Hungwe said the plan is worth watching. “If it ensures that fuel costs and the cost of other goods and services remain stable, then it is a good move,” he said.
Zimbabwe’s diesel ethanol programme remains at trial stage, with no confirmed rollout timeline.
