Easter travel pain as fuel hike hits motorists in Zimbabwe

Zimbabwean motorists are heading into the Easter holidays under fresh financial pressure after the Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) raised fuel prices effective 2 April 2026.

The timing of the increase has left many drivers bracing for higher travel costs during one of the busiest road periods of the year, when families traditionally take long-distance trips.

New fuel prices squeeze Easter holiday budgets

ZERA set diesel (50) at ZWG 53.60 per litre or US$2.11(R35.81), while petrol blend (E5) now costs ZWG 56.70 per litre or US$2.23 (R37.85) per litre.

For motorists planning Easter getaways, the increase translates directly into higher transport costs, whether for private travel or public transport fares, which often rise in response to fuel hikes.

ZERA said it pushed prices up after facing mounting supply chain costs. Since the last review, the Free on Board (FOB) price of diesel jumped by 33.16%, while petrol rose by 5.96%.

These global cost pressures are now filtering down to local pumps, leaving Zimbabwean drivers with little choice but to absorb the impact.

Government steps in to limit diesel costs

Authorities intervened to prevent diesel prices from climbing even higher.

ZERA revealed that without government support, diesel would have reached US$2.65 (R44.97) per litre.

“Government will endeavour to keep the price of diesel lower than what it ought to be,” the regulator said.

To cushion key sectors such as agriculture, mining, and transport, the government removed all taxes and levies on diesel.

Transport costs likely to rise during Easter

Despite the intervention, the increase is expected to ripple across the transport sector.

Bus operators and informal transport providers often adjust fares in response to fuel price changes, meaning travellers could pay more to reach their destinations this Easter.

For many families already struggling with high living costs, the fuel hike adds another layer of financial strain.

ZERA signalled possible relief in the next pricing cycle. The authority expects petrol prices to ease as ethanol production begins.

Increasing the blending ratio to E20 could reduce petrol prices by about 18 cents per litre, offering some hope for motorists in the coming months.

Authorities assure adequate fuel supplies during Easter

Despite the price increases, ZERA said the country has enough fuel stocks to meet demand during the holiday period.

Supplies stored at Beira and inland facilities can cover more than three months.

The government is also opening alternative supply routes to avoid disruptions linked to the Middle East conflict.

In a bid to improve availability, authorities have approved the importation of diesel by road with immediate effect.

This adds to existing pipeline and rail transport options.

State-owned firms Petrotrade and NOIC will also play a key role in ensuring fuel reaches remote parts of the country.