07 Oct 2019 | 01:04 PM UTC
Zimbabwe: Electricity and fuel price hikes implemented October 4 /update 1
Zimbabwean government sets further electricity and fuel price hikes October 4, associated protests likely over coming days
Event
The Zimbabwe Energy Regulation Authority (ZETDC) announced an increase of 306 percent on electricity tariffs on Friday, October 4, as well as further fuel price hikes of 26 percent for petrol and 27 percent for diesel starting from Sunday, October 6. The ZETDC stated that the decision was made as a response to significant inflation rates hitting the country, making previous tariffs unsustainable.
The price hikes are expected to result in an increase in transport fares and the prices of goods.
Associated protests are likely over the coming days. Heightened security measures and localized traffic disruptions are possible around related protests.
Context
Between January 14 and January 17, violent protests erupted following the government announcement of a 130 percent increase in fuel prices. Prices have regularly increased since then.
Advice
Individuals in Zimbabwe are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all demonstrations as a precaution, and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities.
