Caroline Nyamayaro:
Motorists are going to pay more to fill up the tank after Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) announced new maximum petrol and fuel prices as the local currency continues to slide against the United States dollar.
According to ZERA motorists will now fork out $12,08 for a litre of diesel up from $10,89 last week and $11,55 for blended petrol per litre up from $10,4, respectively.
The new hike is the seventh within eight months. The increase further compounds woes to an already burdened citizen.
“We are going through difficult situation in Zimbabwe and things are getting worse each day, we have no hope,” Tendai Zenda a motorist said.
A fuel attendant, Blessing Tirivangani said, “Honestly, I was shocked that the fuel price has increased again.”
ZERA did not give reasons on the increase, however, the current US dollar rate against the ZL$ is believed to be the reason.
Zimbabweans from all walks of life have expressed dismay at the rate at which fuel prices are increased.
“It is no longer news, we are used to the struggle, it has become the normal routine.” said Ruth Mapuranga a vendor.
ZERA stated that the Free On Board (FOB) price movements and the revised duty regime will be applicable starting Monday. However, operators may sell at prices below the cap, depending on their trading advantages.
