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Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa has announced a sharp increase in gas prices to improve supplies as the country faces the worst gas shortage in a decade.
After years of international isolation, Zimbabwe's economy has been in crisis for more than a decade: a shortage of liquidity, high unemployment and, recently, a shortage of basic necessities such as bread and cooking oil.
In an address on national television on Saturday, Mnangagwa said gasoline and diesel prices would more than double to address fuel shortages caused by increased fuel consumption and illegal trade.
Mnangagwa, who succeeded his long-time president Robert Mugabe and won disputed elections in July, also announced a package of measures to help civil servants after the workers 'and teachers' strike against pay.
PRICE OF GASOLINE
According to him, from midnight, the price of gasoline would increase to $ 1.31 per liter and that of diesel to $ 1.31 per liter to $ 3.31.
"As a result of the continuing fuel market shortage due to increased fuel consumption in the economy and the growing illegality and fuel trade, the government has decided today to corrective actions, "he said.
The finance minister said this week that prices were lower than those of other countries in the region and that some foreigners were enjoying the benefit of buying bulk fuel in Zimbabwe to resell it in neighboring countries.
The announcement comes after gasoline shortages that began last October have worsened in recent weeks, with motorists sometimes spending the night in line in front of gas pumps spreading for miles.
Mnangagwa said diplomats and foreign tourists would get gas at cheaper prices at designated places. The government also took steps to limit the parallel market where fuel was sold five times more than the official price.
STATE HOSPITAL
The doctors at the public hospital began a 40-day strike in early December and early December to demand US dollar wages and improve working conditions.
Teachers' unions have also called for a strike this week to get a better salary, although their calls have been largely ignored.
Mr Mnangagwa also warned against "certain elements determined to take advantage of current fuel shortages to provoke and sustain unrest and instability" in the country.
As part of the financial reforms, Zimbabwe also plans to reintroduce a local currency "in less than 12 months," after using the US dollar and regional currencies since the hyperinflation crisis that occurred ten years ago. years.
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