The government has reversed its decision to ban unleaded fuel following intervention from President Emmerson Mnangagwa.
This development was confirmed by Information Minister Jenfan Muswere.
The government had announced a ban on unleaded petrol through a new regulation introduced last month.
However, Energy and Power Development Minister Edgar Moyo stated that he had made this decision after consulting with the Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority.
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Muswere clarified that there is “no policy position” in place to ban unleaded fuel. He shared this information during a speech at the National University of Science and Technology’s annual conference on communication and information science.
When asked about the ban, Muswere noted, “As the government spokesperson, I can confirm that there have been discussions, but the government bases its decisions on scientific evidence.”
He added that President Mnangagwa believed the discussions surrounding the ban were not comprehensive enough and that it was not the government’s intention to prohibit unleaded fuel.
Muswere also highlighted ongoing issues related to taxes on unleaded fuel imports and mentioned that they are examining blending ratios with various stakeholders. He stressed the need for local research to help reduce import costs and create job opportunities.
Under the previous regulation, all unleaded petrol imported into Zimbabwe was required to be blended with anhydrous ethanol. This decision caused frustration among drivers, who argued for their right to choose their preferred fuel type.
