‘Park Your Cars’: Ncube Urges Zimbabweans to Cut Travel as Fuel Prices Surge

Southerton Business Times
9 hours ago
2 min read

HARARE – Zimbabweans have been urged to drastically reduce travel and “park their cars” as fuel prices remain among the highest in the region, with petrol pegged at US$2.23 per litre and diesel at US$2.11. Finance Minister Mthuli Ncube issued the warning while speaking at the World Bank and IMF Spring Meetings 2026 on April 15, saying motorists must “rationalise” fuel usage in the face of persistent high prices.

Ncube acknowledged the strain on households and businesses but stressed that immediate behavioural changes were necessary.

“Zimbabweans have been told to park their cars and cut back on travel as fuel prices remain high,” he said, urging citizens to rethink daily commuting patterns.

The remarks come despite government efforts to cushion consumers, including the removal of taxes on diesel.

Zimbabwe’s fuel prices continue to outpace those in neighbouring countries, widening the cost gap for motorists:

Zambia: approx. US$1.42 (petrol), US$1.56 (diesel)
Namibia: approx. US$1.20 (petrol)

Analysts say the disparity places additional pressure on transport costs, inflation, and the overall cost of living.

“High fuel prices have a ripple effect across the economy, from food prices to public transport fares,” said Harare-based economist Prosper Chitambara.

Ncube attributed the elevated prices to global geopolitical tensions affecting oil markets, arguing that Zimbabwe is not insulated from international shocks.

“We are impacted by global developments beyond our control,” he said, while maintaining that fuel supply remains stable.

Authorities say the country currently holds more than three months’ fuel cover.

Despite the high cost of fuel, Ncube maintained that Zimbabwe’s economy is still on track to achieve around 5% growth in 2026. He also insisted that inflation would remain stable even if diesel prices were to rise further to US$2.50 per litre.

“Government will continue to closely monitor global developments and stands ready to implement further measures where necessary,” he said.

Transport operators and commuters say the high fuel prices are already taking a toll.

“We are forced to increase fares regularly just to survive. Everything is going up,” said a Harare commuter omnibus driver.

For many households, reduced mobility has become a necessity rather than a choice, with some opting for carpooling or public transport to manage costs.

Economic commentators argue that while global factors play a role, domestic policies and pricing structures also need review to improve competitiveness.