Zimbabwe Fuel Price Surge Hits Ride-Hailing Sector as Fares Rise and Tensions Grow

inDrive

Zimbabwe’s ride-hailing industry is under strain following a sharp increase in fuel prices to a record US$2.17 per litre, triggering fare disputes between drivers and passengers and threatening the viability of app-based transport services. The latest hike, confirmed by the Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA), marks the second fuel price increase in Zimbabwe in less than a month, driven largely by global oil market volatility.

The rising cost of fuel is rapidly reshaping the economics of platforms such as inDrive, which entered the Zimbabwean market in March 2023 and expanded to cities including Bulawayo, Gweru, and Mutare. Initially popular for its affordability, with fares as low as US$2 for short trips in Harare, the platform is now facing backlash as drivers push for higher prices.

“Fuel is very expensive. I can’t just accept ride requests anymore,” said Peter Mahlangu, an inDrive driver. “I now have to add at least US$2 for short distances and US$3 for longer ones.”

Unlike conventional ride-hailing apps, inDrive allows direct fare negotiation between drivers and passengers, a feature that is now intensifying disputes as both sides struggle to absorb rising costs.

Drivers say the impact of high fuel prices on the Zimbabwe transport sector has significantly eroded their earnings.

“Imagine buying five litres of petrol for more than US$10,” said driver Tinotenda Feremba. “I used to make around US$40 a day before fuel, but now I cannot accept rides without adjusting fares.”

Analysts say Zimbabwe’s high fuel costs, among the highest in Southern Africa, are squeezing margins for drivers who rely on ride-hailing as a primary source of income.

Passengers are also feeling the pressure, with fares becoming unpredictable and increasingly unaffordable.

“I used to pay between US$2 and US$3, but now I can’t get rides at those prices,” said Tendai Kamurai, a nurse based in Waterfalls.

The situation is worsening urban transport challenges, particularly in major cities like Harare, where reliable and affordable mobility is critical for workers.

Vusumuzi Moyo, chairperson of the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on ICT, warned that rising fuel costs could slow digital transport adoption in Zimbabwe.

“Geopolitical events in the Middle East are affecting our pace in technology adoption,” he said.

The surge in oil prices has been linked to tensions involving global powers and disruptions to supply routes through the Strait of Hormuz.

Meanwhile, Chalton Hwende, chairperson of the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Energy and Power Development, said Parliament will engage Energy Minister July Moyo on possible interventions.

“This situation will heavily affect ordinary citizens, especially those in the ride-hailing sector,” Hwende said.

Transport analyst Victor Bhoroma warned that sustained high fuel prices could reverse progress made in modernising urban transport.

“If costs remain high, commuters may return to informal transport options, undermining digital mobility platforms.”

Zimbabwe is currently ranked among the most expensive countries for fuel in Southern Africa, placing additional strain on households and small businesses.

The Zimbabwe fuel price crisis of 2026 is creating a fragile balance between affordability and sustainability in the ride-hailing sector. As fares rise and negotiations become more contentious, both drivers and passengers are being forced to adapt ride by ride in an increasingly expensive transport market.

Zimbabwe fuel price 2026; inDrive Zimbabwe fuel impact