Remove Fuel Taxes Now: ZCTU Issues Stark Warning To Government
Zimbabwe’s largest labour body has warned authorities to urgently remove what it calls “irrational” fuel taxes or risk unrest, as transport fares surge sharply following recent fuel price increases that have left commuters struggling to cope.
The Zimbabwe Congress of Trade Unions (ZCTU) issued the warning in a statement dated 20 March 2026, linking the rising cost of fuel directly to skyrocketing kombi fares and growing pressure on workers’ incomes.
Workers Feel The Heat As Costs Surge
ZCTU Secretary General Tinkumbu Manhlo said workers were already bearing the brunt of the increases, with transport costs in some cases doubling almost overnight.
“The margins of the current increases have sent shocking waves among workers and Zimbabweans who are now paying more than double in transport costs,” he said.
He noted that while global oil price movements may influence fuel costs, the situation in Zimbabwe appears more severe than in neighbouring countries.
“We do not believe that this is entirely the cause of the increase as other neighbouring countries… have fuel prices that are less than US$1.50.”
The statement comes after fuel prices rose to US$2.17 (R40.15) per litre for petrol and US$2.05 (R37.93) for diesel on 18 March 2026, triggering immediate fare increases across multiple routes.
“Irrational Taxes” Driving Prices Up
The ZCTU attributed the high fuel prices largely to domestic taxes and levies, which it said are inflating consumer costs.
“We believe our fuel is overpriced due to numerous irrational taxes and levies,” Manhlo said.
According to the union, petrol is burdened with about US$0.86 (R15.91) per litre in taxes, while diesel carries around US$0.42 (R7.76) per litre.
“These are costs directly transferred to the consumer by business people.”
The union also raised concerns about ethanol blending, arguing that it should lower costs rather than increase them.
Kombi Fares Jump Overnight
Commuters across Harare reported fare increases of between 50% and 100% on 19 March 2026, with some routes now costing up to US$2.50 (R46.25) per trip.
One commuter said:
“$2 mari Mabvuku Town.. then town Coventry $1.”
Another added:
“2.50 from Southlea Park to town.”
Some commuters said transport costs are now taking up a significant portion of their daily earnings, forcing difficult choices between commuting and basic needs.
Transport operators defended the fare hikes, citing the sudden rise in fuel prices.
“Fuel has been raised so suddenly without notice and the rise is alarmingly high,” a transport representative said.
Warning Of Unrest
The ZCTU warned that the situation could escalate if authorities do not act quickly.
“The current wave of fuel increases could trigger civil unrest… as happened in January 2019.”
The union urged the government to either review or scrap fuel taxes to ease the burden on workers and businesses.
“The perpetuation of the current prices will only result in the suffering of workers, businesses and the generality of Zimbabweans.”
It also called on employers to adjust wages to match the rising cost of living.
“Employers must award meaningful salary increases that will cushion workers.”
As fares continue to rise, commuters say they are being forced to walk longer distances, share transport, or cut back on essentials.
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The post Remove ‘Irrational’ Fuel Taxes Now Or Risk Unrest: ZCTU Warns Govt As Transport Fares Skyrocket appeared first on iHarare News.
