Transport grounded in Capital after cancellation of fuel programme

By Tererai Karimakwenda
06 March 2006

We have received reports that there was no transportation in the capital on Monday. Many workers and school kids reportedly went back home and some walked as omnibus operators parked their vehicles due to the high cost of fuel. From Harare Simon Muchemwa told us that the problem started when the government cancelled its “fuel for forex” programme some weeks ago complaining that much of the foreign currency raised through selling fuel was not getting to the Reserve Bank. The government had set up collection points at the Comoil depot in Arcadia and at Wedzera in Hatfield where anyone with foreign notes was able to purchase fuel coupons that could be redeemed anywhere. The cancellation has now caused this transport nightmare that is affecting everyone.

Muchemwa put off his trip from the suburbs into town after realising no minibuses were on the streets. He said many people were walking to town hoping to find transport along the way, and others simply went back home. Muchemwa told us the price for fuel is varying from Z$200,000 to Z$ 300,000 a litre, with many service stations charging whatever they want. He also noticed that coupons from NGOs like United Nations and World Health Organisation were circulating around Harare. He said with everyone trying to make a profit these coupons can pass through several owners before they are used to actually purchase fuel.

Omnibus operators are also reported to be taking advantage of the fuel crisis. Muchemwa said whenever it rains, they increase their fares knowing people are desperate. It now costs a minimum Z$50,000 to go into the central business district from the outer suburbs.