Rutendo Mapfumo
Zimbabwe has experienced a proliferation of service stations, with the Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) issuing 900 licenses in urban areas last year alone, an official has said.
Speaking during a media briefing in Bulawayo recently, Engineer Andrew Guri, Head of the Petroleum Department at the Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA), said that Harare had the highest number of new service stations in the country, significantly outpacing other regions.
“Harare led the way with 328 new service stations, followed closely by Bulawayo with 111. Even smaller towns like Kadoma have seen a notable increase, now boasting over 30 service stations,” he said.
Guri noted that this growth is part of a broader initiative to enhance fuel accessibility and meet the rising demand for petroleum products in urban areas.
“We have issued an impressive 900 licenses in urban areas last year alone. This surge reflects the country’s efforts to meet the rising demand for fuel and improve accessibility for motorists,” he continued.
Despite this growth, not all applications for new service stations were successful. ZERA rejected 24 applications for failing to meet specific requirements aligned with the local authority Master Plan.
In response to the scarcity of service stations in rural areas, Guri said ZERA had taken proactive steps by proposing to the government the gazetting of mobile filling stations. Currently, regions like Kushinga district have only two service stations, underscoring the urgent need for more accessible fuel options for residents and travellers alike.
To further address the growing demand for fuel, ZERA is also developing a framework for containerised service stations. This innovative approach aims to provide easier access to fuel, particularly in underserved rural areas, thereby enhancing convenience for consumers and supporting local economies.
As Zimbabwe continues to expand its network of service stations, the focus remains on balancing growth with safety and regulatory compliance, ensuring that all communities have access to vital fuel supplies.
