Staff Writer
The Zimbabwe National Organization of Associations and Residents Trust (ZNOART) has called on Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) to come up with a transparent and detailed cost breakdown of fuel pricing which it says is unjustifiably high, putting the burden on residents across the country.
In a statement, ZNOART national chairman Shalvar Chikomba said the unjustified fuel prices increase in recent weeks has resulted in high cost of living as prices of basic commodities have risen.
“The Zimbabwe National Organisation of Associations and Residents Trust (ZNOART) expresses deep concern over the escalating fuel prices in Zimbabwe and the devastating impact they continue to have on residents.
The continued increase in fuel prices has triggered a sharp rise in the cost of living, affecting public transport fares, food prices, basic commodities, and essential services.
” Residents across the country are bearing the brunt of these increases, with many households struggling to cope,”said Chikomba.
Chikomba added:
“ZNOART calls upon the Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) to urgently provide a transparent and detailed cost breakdown of fuel pricing. Residents have a fundamental right to understand the factors driving these persistently high costs.
“Despite indications of declining international fuel prices and government pronouncements on tax adjustments, the situation on the ground reflects the opposite — with prices continuing to rise. This disconnect raises serious concerns that must be urgently addressed.”
“Fuel prices remain disproportionately high and appear unjustified
The ripple effect has significantly worsened the cost of living.
Ordinary citizens continue to suffer while benefiting structures remain unclear,”he said.
ZNOART, Chikomba said, is demanding mechanisms to be put in place to cushion residents in Zimbabwe from the harsh effects of continued fuel prices hikes and has demanded that government intervenes.
“We demand immediate transparency on fuel pricing structures, fair and reduced fuel prices aligned with regional benchmarks, government intervention, including targeted subsidies to protect citizens and formulation of a clear and consistent communication on the causes of fuel price increases.”
Chikomba highlighted proposals put forward by residents in light of the fuel prices increases.
“ZNOART calls for practical, urgent measures to cushion residents from the ongoing crisis:
“Establish a well organised, government-managed public transport system,
increase government support for public transport, including buses during peak hours at affordable fares.
Government must urgently review and reduce excessive taxes and levies on fuel as taxation is a major driver of inflated fuel prices.
Lower fuel taxes will reduce transport costs and also stabilize prices of basic goods and services.
This will ease pressure on households and businesses.
“Government must promote transparent fuel pricing mechanisms to build public trust and accountability.
There is an urgent need to accelerate investment in renewable energy solutions to reduce reliance on fuel, encourage transition to solar-powered systems for households and businesses, promote the adoption of energy-efficient appliances.
He added :
There is need to come up with renewable energy Incentives, introduce incentives for renewable energy adoption, including, duty-free importation of solar equipment.
There must be an initiative for affordable financing options for installations , implement policy measures to stabilize fuel prices and protect the broader economy, strengthen oversight to prevent price distortions and inefficiencies.”
Chikomba concluded:
“It is imperative that authorities act with urgency to protect citizens. ZNOART calls for immediate engagement with the responsible Minister and the Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority to address these concerns and provide sustainable, long-term solutions.
Zimbabwe cannot continue to experience some of the highest fuel prices in the region without clear justification.
“Residents deserve fairness, accountability, and meaningful relief from the ongoing economic strain.”
Zimbabwe has recently increased fuel prices, with petrol now costing US$2.23 per litre and diesel priced at US$2.11 per litre, effective April 2, 2026. This is the third hike in just a month, with previous increases on March 4 and March 18. The Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) attributes the rise to global fuel cost pressures and supply chain disruptions due to Middle East conflicts.