By Savious Madanhire
Despite the efforts from the Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) to accept local Zig currency as payment fuel garages in Gweru continue to reject the local currency leaving some motorists frustrated and stranded.
A statement released by ZERA emphasized that fuel garages are required to accept ZiG as payment for fuel in accordance with the country’s currency laws.
“Please be advised of the fuel prices for diesel and blend effective 5 July 2024. The prices are as follows Diesel 50 ZiG/litre 22.24, Blend-E20 ZiG/litre 21.94, Diesel 50 US$/litre 1.62 and Blend E-20 US$/litre 1.59”
“The prices are for July 2024 based on M-1 and will be effective up to 4 August 2024”.
“The public and operators are advised that the blending ratio is at E20. Operators may sell the petroleum products below the prescribed prices depending on their trading advantages and should display prices in a prominent place as provided for by the fuel pricing regulations”.
“Stakeholders are advised that the petroleum price releases by ZERA can be verified on the official ZERA website, Facebook or Twitter handle”.
However. this reporter revealed that all fuel garages in Gweru are still insisting on US dollars or Rands only.
Speaking to a local fuel service station employee, Fadzai Hurumanikwa confirmed that the fuel prices at their garage are only pegged in United States Dollars as they also purchase it outside the country in foreign currency.
“The fuel is transported from outside the country making it difficult to use local currency as payment is made in forex.”
“The higher authority which is the Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) sets prices for us hence it is a mandate that is not yet accepted and practical”, she said.
Some motorists shared their different views and comments on the issue.
“Fuel outlets are yet to accept Zig in the Midlands province and we call upon the government to address this matter,” said Lee Dube a local motorist.
“The issue is disgusting because it shows that this new Zig currency has no value.
The fuel prices control the whole economy hence making it difficult for many to maintain their standards of living due to the ZiG income they earn”, said a frustrated motorist, who wished to remain anonymous.
James Koronga a pirate taxi driver said the fact service stations refuse to take ZiG currency is hard on most of us because the same currency they are refusing is the one we are getting from passengers.
