Chief Dakamela NKAYI  – Chief Mbusi Dakamela  of Nkayi has moved to quell a firestorm of social media speculation following the Imiklomelo ka Dakamela 2026  cultural festival held over the Easter weekend. Reports circulating on platforms like X and WhatsApp claimed the 29-year-old traditional leader had been "presented" with a wife, Princess Andile Mabhena , as a symbolic gift from the Manala Royal Family of South Africa. In a clarifying interview with local media, Chief Dakamela expressed concern over how traditional proceedings were being viewed through a modern, often distorted lens. He emphasized that while the Manala Royal Family (Southern Ndebele from Mpumalanga) were distinguished guests, the idea of a person being gifted is an antiquated misrepresentation of the event's goals. “It is not correct to say a person can be presented as a gift in this day and age, let alone a princess,” Chief Dakamela stated. “The Mabhena royal family was among those showcasing their culture... She [Princess Andile] was carrying a gift on behalf of her family, which they presented to Chief Dakamela.” The Chief noted that while the visiting delegation expressed warm wishes for his future, including the hope that he might have a wife by the next festival, no marriage arrangement was formalized during the ceremony. Princess Andile Mabhena, identified in some reports as a "virgin bride" presented to unite the kingdoms, has also issued a firm rebuttal. She described the online claims as "false and misleading," asserting that her presence in Nkayi was strictly as a guest and cultural representative of King Makhosoke Mabhena’s house. Chief Dakamela added a touch of modern diplomacy to the situation, acknowledging the Princess's beauty but stressing the importance of mutual consent. “If there were wishes for her to be the chief’s wife, I would have to pursue her, but the decision rests with her. She has the right to choose as she sees fit,” he added. Despite the controversy, the 2026 edition of Imiklomelo ka Dakamela (The Dakamela Awards) has been hailed as a massive success for rural tourism. The event drew thousands of attendees and high-profile royals, including: Prince Thulani: Representing King Misuzulu kaZwelithini of the Zulu Nation. King Papa Paul Sande Emolot III: The Iteso Paramount Chief from Uganda. King Bulelani Khumalo: Descendant of King Lobengula. Hon. Emily Jesaya: Zimbabwe’s Deputy Minister of Sports, Recreation, Arts, and Culture. The festival, established in 2023, continues to position Nkayi as a "model for community-driven cultural tourism," even as it navigates the complexities of traditional symbolism in a digital age. Chief Dakamela 's  wife gift claim 2026

Douglas Coltart HARARE  — ZANU-PF Treasurer-General Patrick Chinamasa has warned that Central Committee member Luckmore Tinashe Gapa could face disciplinary action if allegations that he grabbed a cellphone from human rights lawyer Douglas Coltart are proven in court. The alleged incident occurred last week at the City Sports Centre in Harare during a public hearing on the Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3 , where tensions have been high amid nationwide consultations. Photos and videos circulating on social media appear to show a man, alleged to be Gapa, taking Coltart’s phone during the proceedings. The footage has sparked widespread debate and condemnation online, though authorities have not yet publicly confirmed the identity of the individual involved. Coltart is reported to have filed a complaint with the Zimbabwe Republic Police, setting the stage for a possible criminal investigation. In a statement posted on X, Chinamasa described the allegations as serious and potentially damaging to the party’s reputation. “This allegation is serious and highly defamatory against Cde Gapa, and causes reputational damage to the public image of ZANU-PF as an ideologically sound revolutionary party,” he said. He emphasised that the matter should be handled through legal channels and that any disciplinary action would depend on the outcome of court proceedings. “If the allegations are proven true in a court of law, this will constitute damning evidence… and he would not escape disciplinary charges,” Chinamasa said. According to Chinamasa, if convicted, Gapa would be referred to the party’s National Disciplinary Committee, chaired by Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri. He stressed that membership in the Central Committee requires high ethical standards. “The ZANU-PF Central Committee is the highest organ of the party between Congresses and is made up of people of high integrity and probity,” he said. “It will not have room for someone convicted of snatching or stealing cellphones from members of the public.” The incident comes at a sensitive time, as public hearings on constitutional reforms have drawn strong views from both supporters and critics. Legal analysts say the case will hinge on evidence presented in court, including the authenticity and context of the circulating video footage. Media lawyer Tinashe Chikura said: “If a criminal complaint has been filed, the matter must follow due process. Video evidence can be compelling, but it must be verified and contextualised.” The case has attracted significant public attention, highlighting broader concerns about conduct at political events and the importance of accountability. As investigations proceed, both political and legal outcomes are likely to shape perceptions around governance, rule of law, and party discipline in Zimbabwe. ZANU PF Gapa Coltart incident

KZN MEC for Transport and Human Settlements, Siboniso Duma NEWCASTLE, KZN  – A wedding ceremony scheduled for 11:00 AM on Sunday, April 5, 2026, was abruptly called off after the groom and his father were arrested during a high-intensity drunk driving operation in Newcastle. The pair were among 45 motorists detained by the Road Traffic Inspectorate (RTI) during a specialized overnight roadblock. The arrests were part of the ongoing #NenzaniLaEzweni  (“What are you doing in the nation?”) campaign, a provincial initiative launched by the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Transport to curb reckless driving. According to department spokesperson Ndabezinhle Sibiya , the operation targeted high-accident zones during the busy Easter weekend. The crackdown netted a surprising demographic of professionals, highlighting the widespread nature of the issue. Among those arrested were: A University Lecturer (who reportedly challenged officers by claiming he could speak only English for a week without using Zulu). Two Teachers and Two Nurses. A Pharmacist and a Safety Manager. A Chief Liaison Officer from a local municipality. A University Student. KZN MEC for Transport and Human Settlements, Siboniso Duma , took a hardline stance on the arrests, reinforcing the department's zero-tolerance policy. “Arrest all of them and show no mercy,” Duma stated. “Our message is clear: if you drink and drive, you earn yourself a criminal record and a minimum of 48 hours in a holding cell.” The MEC has previously advocated for harsher sentencing, including pushing for six-year prison terms for drunk driving convictions to serve as a stronger deterrent. The Newcastle incident is part of a broader provincial effort that has deployed over 3,400 law enforcement officers across KwaZulu-Natal for the 2026 Easter period. 148 multidisciplinary roadblocks are active 24/7. 80+ roadblocks are dedicated specifically to alcohol testing. For the first time, the operation is also targeting drunk pedestrians walking on busy highways, with 28 specialized enforcement units deployed for this purpose. While the families involved in the Newcastle wedding have not issued a formal statement, the Department of Transport confirmed that the event could not proceed as both the groom and his father remained in custody awaiting their court appearance on Monday. Newcastle wedding groom arrested for drink driving

HARARE  – As the registration window for the 2026 national school examinations enters its final stretch, the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has issued a high-alert warning to parents and guardians regarding a surge in examination fee fraud. The alert comes amid reports that several proprietors of unregistered private colleges have allegedly diverted registration funds for personal use, leaving thousands of students with sophisticated but fake statements of entry. Ministry spokesperson Taungana Ndoro  emphasized that the time for parents to act is now. While the June ZIMSEC registration closed on February 27, the window for the November 2026 Advanced and Ordinary Level examinations is still open following a government extension. Critical Deadlines to Remember: June 2026 Examinations: Registration closed February 27, 2026. November 2026 Examinations: Deadline extended from March 27 to May 22, 2026. “We urge parents to ensure they receive statements of entry with official ZIMSEC stamps and specific fonts. You are free to verify these directly with ZIMSEC,” Ndoro stated. He noted that many fraudulent schools mimic the look of official documents, making physical verification at a ZIMSEC regional office or a known government center essential. A recurring issue involves students attending "backyard" colleges that lack official ZIMSEC or Cambridge center status. Ndoro clarified that students at these institutions are not automatically registered for exams. “Students attending unregistered schools must register as private candidates at approved examination centres. This includes government schools, council schools, or duly registered private colleges,” Ndoro explained. To avoid last-minute heartbreak where students are turned away from exam halls, the Ministry recommends the following steps: Personal Visit: Do not rely on school authorities to "handle everything." Visit the examination center in person. Verify Center Status: Check if the school is a registered ZIMSEC center (Center Numbers are usually 6 digits). Inspect the Statement of Entry: Ensure it has the correct candidate name, subjects, and the official ZIMSEC watermark/stamp. Confirm Payment: Retain all original receipts and cross-match them with the school's submission list to ZIMSEC. The government’s decision to extend the November registration deadline to May 22 provides a vital safety net for families to rectify any registration discrepancies discovered during this verification period. ZIMSEC exam registration 2026 fraud

CHIVHU  – A devastating road traffic accident claimed two lives and left four others injured on Sunday, April 5, 2026, along the Chivhu‑Gutu Road. The incident occurred at the 11 km peg, adding to a somber weekend on Zimbabwe’s highways. According to a statement from the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) , the accident involved a Toyota Hilux traveling toward Chivhu with five passengers on board. The driver reportedly lost control of the vehicle, causing it to veer off the road to the right. The vehicle then overturned several times before eventually landing back on its wheels. Fatalities: Two people died instantly at the scene. Injuries: Four other occupants sustained various injuries and were rushed for medical attention. Response: The deceased were transported to the Chivhu General Hospital mortuary  for postmortem examinations. The ZRP has once again urged motorists to exercise extreme caution, particularly when navigating regional roads. This accident follows a series of high-profile crashes over the Easter weekend, including the tragic loss of the Mujuru family on the Harare-Masvingo Highway just days prior. Authorities are investigating whether speed or mechanical failure played a role in the driver losing control at the 11 km peg. Motorists are reminded to adhere to speed limits and ensure vehicles are roadworthy before embarking on long trips. Chivhu-Gutu road accident 2026

Marshall Munetsi celebrates a goal for Paris FC PARIS  — Zimbabwe international Marshall Munetsi struck a crucial late goal to earn Paris FC a hard-fought 1-1 draw against FC Lorient in a tightly contested Ligue 1 clash on Sunday. The result keeps Paris FC battling in the lower half of the table, while Lorient missed an opportunity to strengthen their push for a top-half finish. The match began at a high tempo, with Bamba Dieng coming close inside the opening minute, only to see his effort drift wide. Both sides struggled to create clear-cut opportunities in a physical first half. Lorient grew into the game after the half-hour mark, with Théo Le Bris forcing a sharp save from Paris FC goalkeeper Kevin Trapp. Paris FC responded late in the half as Lorient keeper Yvon Mvogo denied Jonathan Ikoné and Nhoa Sangui in quick succession to keep the scores level at the break. The game came alive in the 54th minute when Pablo Pagis delivered a pinpoint cross into the box, allowing Dieng to fire home and give Lorient a deserved lead. Lorient nearly doubled their advantage in the 66th minute, but Jean-Victor Makengo struck the post following a swift counter-attack. Trailing late in the match, Paris FC made a decisive tactical shift with a quadruple substitution in the 71st minute, introducing fresh energy through players including Ilan Kebbal and Alimami Gory. The changes paid off almost immediately. In the 74th minute, after Mvogo produced an excellent save to deny Diego Coppola, Paris FC capitalised on the resulting corner. In a crowded box, Munetsi reacted quickest to poke the ball home from close range, levelling the match. The closing stages were frantic, with both sides pushing for a winner. Aiyegun Tosin missed a golden opportunity for Lorient in the 88th minute, firing wide from close range. Deep into stoppage time, Paris FC nearly snatched victory, but substitute Samir Chergui saw his 97th-minute effort brilliantly saved by Mvogo. After matchday 28, Paris FC sit 13th on 32 points, while Lorient are 9th with 38 points. Munetsi’s goal continues his strong impact since joining the club, having now scored four times after arriving when Paris FC were struggling near the relegation zone. Analysts say his influence in midfield has been key to stabilising the team’s performances. “Munetsi brings physicality, leadership and a goal threat — exactly what Paris FC needed during a difficult period,” said French football analyst Julien Laurent. For Zimbabwean fans, Munetsi’s continued form in European football is a positive sign, reinforcing his importance to both club and country. As the season enters its final stretch, Paris FC will be hoping their in-form midfielder can continue delivering crucial moments in their fight to climb the table. Marshall Munetsi's goal at Paris FC

Tawanda Maswanhise HARARE  — Warriors forward Tawanda Maswanhise continued his impressive scoring form in Scotland, finding the net in Motherwell FC’s 3-2 defeat to Falkirk FC in a Scottish Premiership encounter on Saturday. Despite the loss, Maswanhise’s goal takes his season tally to 16, cementing his place among the league’s top scorers and underlining his growing influence in European football. Maswanhise delivered another composed finish, but it was not enough to prevent Motherwell from slipping to a narrow defeat in a closely contested match. Reflecting on the result, the Zimbabwe international expressed mixed emotions. “I am happy to add another goal, though it is disappointing to do that in a losing position,” he said.“As a team, we gave it our all. It was unfortunate that we ended up on the losing side, and we seek to rectify that in our next encounter.” The forward recently returned from a minor injury that ruled him out of Zimbabwe’s participation in the Four Nations Tournament during the March international break. Maswanhise said missing national duty was a difficult moment, but credited his club’s medical team for aiding his recovery. “It was disappointing to miss out on playing for Zimbabwe, but these things happen in football,” he said.“I had a small issue, but the medical team here were brilliant with me.” He added that he felt ready to return to action and was pleased to contribute on his comeback. “I told the gaffer I was ready to go, and I am just happy I could help the team with a goal today.” Maswanhise’s consistent scoring form has made him a key figure for Motherwell this season, while also boosting his profile within the Zimbabwe national team setup. Football analyst Brian Moyo said the striker’s development is encouraging for the Warriors. “A forward scoring regularly in a competitive European league is a big asset. His confidence and sharpness in front of goal will be important for Zimbabwe going forward,” he said. Motherwell will be aiming to bounce back in their next fixture as they seek to improve their position in the Scottish Premiership standings. For Maswanhise, the focus remains on maintaining his scoring momentum and staying fit ahead of upcoming national team assignments. His return to form will be closely watched by Zimbabwean fans eager to see him make an impact for the Warriors in future international competitions. Tawanda Maswanhise goal

Beetroot (Beta vulgaris) By Dr. Precious Sibiya Beetroots  are an earthy-flavored root vegetable popularly known as red beets, table beets, or garden beets. They are rich in essential nutrients such as fiber, folate (vitamin B9), manganese, potassium, iron, and vitamin C. Currently, the global beet market is worth approximately $5 Billion. Health Benefits of Beetroot Incorporating this nutrient-dense vegetable into your lifestyle offers a multitude of benefits: Boosts Heart Health: Known for lowering blood pressure effectively. Detoxification & Digestion: Supports overall detoxification and improves digestion. Anti-Inflammatory: Helps the body fight inflammation. Cognitive & Physical Power: Supports brain function and improves physical performance. Aesthetics & Aging: Prevents signs of aging, promotes hair growth, and gives a natural glow. Disease Prevention: Combats anemia, boosts circulation, controls blood sugar, and helps prevent cancer. Health Benefits of Beetroot Nutritional Profile (per 100g) Beetroots are a powerhouse of minerals and unique compounds: Potassium: 305mg Sugars: 8g Fiber: 2g Vitamins: C, B-6, A, K, and B-9 (Folate). Nitrite: 11.4g/L in beetroot juice. Elements & Antioxidants: Contains boron and antioxidants such as betalains. Proven Cooking Methods for Beetroot Roasting: The preferred method to enhance flavor. Wash, trim, and wrap whole beets in foil with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast at 200°C (400°F) to 220°C (425°F) for 45–60 minutes. Boiling: Place washed, untrimmed beets in boiling water (add vinegar to retain color) and simmer for 30–60 minutes. Steaming: Steam trimmed beets over boiling water for 30–60 minutes to retain nutrients better than boiling. Raw: Peel and grate or thinly shave raw beetroot for fresh salads. Juicing: Blend with carrots 🥕, ginger, and apples 🍎 for an immune-boosting treat. Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions regarding a medical condition. Dr. Precious Sibiya  is a certified Wellness Practitioner, stroke survivor, and advocate for natural healing and lifestyle. Email:   precioussibiya2014@gmail.com | Contact:  +263 775 369 467. Beetroot Health Benefits

Highlanders FC supporters BULAWAYO  — Seven supporters of Highlanders FC have died following a tragic road accident along the Bulawayo–Gwanda Road on Friday evening, in an incident that has sent shockwaves through Zimbabwe’s football community. The fans were travelling from Bulawayo after attending a Castle Lager Premier Soccer League match in which Highlanders played to a goalless draw against FC Platinum at Barbourfields Stadium. In a statement released late Friday, Highlanders FC confirmed the fatalities and expressed deep sorrow over the loss of its supporters. “Highlanders FC extends its deepest condolences to the families, friends, and loved ones of the seven supporters who tragically lost their lives on Friday evening,” the club said. “The accident occurred along the Bulawayo–Gwanda Road as they were returning from our match against FC Platinum.” The club described the deceased as loyal supporters whose passion for the team would be remembered. “Their passion and dedication to the Black and White will forever be etched in our history,” the statement added. The tragedy has sparked an outpouring of grief across Zimbabwe’s football fraternity, with clubs, players, and fans taking to social media to express condolences and solidarity with the bereaved families. Highlanders FC, one of the country’s oldest and most followed clubs, commands a large and devoted fan base, making the loss particularly devastating. A supporter who attended the match, Nkosilathi Moyo, said the mood quickly shifted from match-day excitement to shock. “We were all celebrating the game, even though it was a draw. To hear that fellow fans did not make it home is heartbreaking,” he said. The fatal accident has once again highlighted ongoing concerns about road safety on Zimbabwe’s highways, particularly busy routes such as the Bulawayo–Gwanda Road. Transport safety experts have repeatedly warned about the risks associated with night travel, speeding, and vehicle condition, especially for long-distance passenger trips after major events. Traffic police are yet to release full details surrounding the cause of the accident, including the number of vehicles involved and whether any survivors sustained injuries. Civil society groups and road safety advocates are urging authorities to strengthen enforcement of traffic regulations and improve road infrastructure to prevent similar tragedies. “We need stricter monitoring of public transport, better road lighting and awareness campaigns targeting drivers and passengers alike,” said road safety campaigner Lindiwe Ndlovu. As investigations continue, Highlanders FC has pledged to support the affected families during this difficult time. “To the bereaved, we offer our sincere prayers, strength, and unwavering support. As a club, we stand with you in grief and solidarity,” the club said. The deaths mark a sombre moment for Zimbabwean sport, underscoring the human cost of road accidents and the deep bond between football clubs and their supporters. Highlanders fans accident

Zimbabwe Parliament building, Harare By Southerton Business Times Desk HARARE  — Debate over Zimbabwe’s proposed Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3 is intensifying, with legal analysts and political observers divided over whether the changes amount to a term extension or a fundamental restructuring of the presidential office. At the centre of the discussion is the argument that the amendment would not extend the tenure of President Emmerson Mnangagwa under the current constitutional framework, but instead create a new presidential office with different rules, powers, and mode of election. What the Bill proposes According to publicly discussed provisions, the amendment seeks to alter key aspects of the Constitution of Zimbabwe , including: Changing the method of electing the President from direct popular vote to parliamentary selection Extending presidential terms from five to seven years Reconfiguring the relationship between the executive and Parliament If enacted, the changes would mark one of the most significant constitutional shifts since the adoption of the 2013 Constitution. The “new office” argument Supporters of the Bill argue that the amendment effectively creates a new legal office of the President, distinct from the one currently held. Under this interpretation: The existing presidency (2013–2028 framework) remains capped at two five-year terms A redefined presidency would begin in 2028 under a new system Any candidate elected under the revised framework would be serving a first term in a new constitutional order, not a continuation of the previous one Constitutional lawyer Dr Tendai Biti (commenting in public forums) has previously noted that the interpretation of term limits depends heavily on whether constitutional changes are deemed to create continuity or discontinuity of office. Critics dispute the interpretation Opponents, including civil society groups and legal experts, argue that such a shift could be viewed as a de facto extension of executive tenure, regardless of how it is framed legally. Political analyst Rejoice Ngwenya said the distinction may be more technical than practical. “Whether you call it a new office or not, the effect is that the same individual could remain in power beyond the limits originally set by the Constitution. That is where public concern lies,” he said. Critics also warn that changing the method of electing the President could weaken direct democratic participation. Legislative pathway and political reality The Bill is currently undergoing public consultations led by Parliament. Once the process concludes, it is expected to be tabled for debate and voting. With the ruling party ZANU-PF holding a parliamentary supermajority, analysts say passage of the Bill is likely if party positions remain unchanged. However, questions have been raised over the inclusiveness and transparency of the consultation process, with some stakeholders alleging that dissenting views may not be fully reflected in official records. What happens in 2028? Under the interpretation advanced by supporters: The 2028 presidential transition would not involve a direct national election Parliament, whose term extends beyond 2028, would elect the President The successful candidate would begin a new seven-year term This scenario would represent a significant departure from Zimbabwe’s current electoral model. Legal and constitutional implications Experts say the ultimate interpretation will depend on: The final wording of the amendment Judicial interpretation, if challenged in court Broader constitutional principles regarding term limits and democratic continuity The Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights has previously emphasised that constitutional amendments must uphold the spirit of democratic governance, not just the letter of the law. A defining moment for Zimbabwe’s governance As the Bill moves closer to a potential vote, it represents a pivotal moment for Zimbabwe’s constitutional trajectory. Whether framed as a legal reset or criticised as a functional extension of power, the amendment is set to redefine how leadership is selected and how long it can endure. For citizens, investors, and regional observers, the outcome will shape Zimbabwe’s political landscape for decades to come. Zimbabwe Constitutional Amendment Bill No 3

New Zig notes By Southerton Business Times Reporter HARARE  – The Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ)  is set to inject a fresh wave of liquidity into the economy starting Tuesday, April 7, 2026. Governor John Mushayavanhu  has confirmed that commercial banks are ready to begin distributing new Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG)  banknotes, ending weeks of anticipation for increased physical cash. In an exclusive briefing, the Governor revealed that the central bank has printed sufficient quantities of the ZiG 10, 20, and 50 denominations to meet market demand. While the ZiG 10 and 20 notes are already familiar to the public, the introduction of the ZiG 50 banknote is expected to significantly ease transaction hurdles for larger purchases. To maintain monetary stability and curb potential black-market speculation, the RBZ has adjusted the weekly cash withdrawal limits: Individuals: ZiG 10,000 per week. Corporates: ZiG 100,000 per week. “All banks have already collected their share based on anticipated demand,” Mushayavanhu stated. “Economic agents will be able to access their cash requirements through normal banking channels starting this week.” Addressing concerns regarding the transition from older notes, the Governor clarified that there will be no designated exchange centers. Instead, the RBZ is adopting a "simultaneous circulation" model. Old ZiG banknotes currently in the hands of the public remain legal tender. However, once these notes are deposited into the banking system by retailers or individuals, they will be "automatically phased out" and replaced by the newer, crisp banknotes. “There will be no exchange posts; the new notes will be obtained normally in the course of commercial and banking transactions,” Mushayavanhu emphasized. The Southerton Business Times  notes that the availability of higher denominations like the ZiG 50 is a welcome relief for the informal sector and small-to-medium enterprises (SMEs), which have struggled with "change" issues and bulky stacks of lower-value notes. Local economists suggest that while the injection of cash is necessary for the "Leave no one and no place behind" developmental agenda, the RBZ must remain vigilant. The success of this rollout depends heavily on the bank’s ability to back the ZiG with tangible gold and foreign currency reserves to prevent the inflationary pressures that plagued previous Zimbabwean currencies. Zimbabwe Gold ZiG banknotes 2026

Fuel pump price Zimbabwe service station By Southerton Business Times Desk HARARE  — Zimbabwe’s recent announcement of a US$0.54 per litre diesel tax removal has triggered widespread debate after fuel prices increased instead of falling, raising concerns over transparency in the country’s fuel pricing model. Motorists and businesses are questioning the credibility of the policy following the latest price adjustments by the Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority , which saw petrol rise to US$2.23 per litre and diesel to US$2.11. The government described the removal of diesel taxes as an “unprecedented fiscal sacrifice,” suggesting consumers would benefit from lower prices. However, analysts say the figures tell a different story. Data from ZERA’s March 18 pricing structure shows petrol’s landed cost, including Free on Board (FOB) price, pipeline fees,, and financing, stood at around US$1.16 per litre at Feruka. Since then, global oil benchmark Brent crude has remained relatively stable, trading below the US$112 per barrel level recorded in mid-March. In recent weeks, prices have averaged around US$103 to US$109 per barrel, suggesting no significant surge in import costs. Energy analyst Tendai Muchengeti said the pricing movement raises legitimate concerns. “If the global benchmark has softened or remained stable, and a tax component has been removed, the expectation is that pump prices should decline. The current trend suggests other cost drivers or policy decisions are at play,” he said. Economists argue that if the US$0.54 tax removal had been fully passed on to consumers, diesel prices could have dropped to approximately US$1.50 per litre, assuming other variables remained constant. Instead, diesel prices rose prompting speculation about whether the tax cut was implemented in practice or offset by increases elsewhere in the pricing structure. A Harare-based fuel retailer, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said pricing remains difficult to interpret. “We rely on official price structures, but there is often a gap between what is announced and what is reflected at the pump. Customers are asking questions we cannot answer,” the retailer said. At the centre of the debate is Zimbabwe’s “replacement cost” pricing model, which allows fuel to be priced based on anticipated future import costs rather than historical purchase prices. Critics say this approach can lead to higher consumer prices, particularly when global oil prices are volatile. Economic commentator Persistence Gwanyanya noted that while the model is designed to ensure supply continuity, it can create perception challenges. “Replacement cost pricing is common in some markets, but it must be applied transparently. Without clear communication, it risks eroding public trust,” he said. Beyond taxes, Zimbabwe’s fuel pricing structure includes blending costs, distribution margins, and regulatory fees. Analysts also point to the role of ethanol blending in petrol pricing, which can influence final pump costs depending on supply arrangements. The Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe has previously emphasised the importance of maintaining fuel supply stability, even if it requires pricing mechanisms that anticipate future costs. For consumers already grappling with high living costs, the price increases have intensified pressure on household budgets and transport expenses. Commuter omnibus driver Shepherd Chikomba said rising fuel costs are being passed on to passengers. “When fuel goes up, fares go up. There is no other option. But people are already struggling,” he said. Economists and industry stakeholders are now calling for greater transparency in fuel pricing, including regular publication of detailed cost build-ups by ZERA. They argue that clearer communication would help rebuild confidence and ensure that policy measures, such as tax adjustments, are understood and reflected in pump prices. As Zimbabwe navigates ongoing economic challenges, the fuel pricing debate underscores the broader need for accountability in policy implementation and answers to questions that continue to linger. Zimbabwe fuel prices 2026