Minister of Defence, Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri said the economy is set for growth to become a middle-income country by 2030 on the back of higher diesel consumption. She said the high fuel consumption in the country is a sure sign that there is a lot of economic activity taking place within the farming and manufacturing industries. She said this while addressing ZANU-PF supporters at Mutasa DC who had congregated to celebrate her elevation to the post of Defence Minister, the first woman to do so. Zimbabwe has experienced fuel shortages in the past several weeks as a result of foreign currency shortages as well as higher demand. Muchinguri-Kashiri said
Even the consumption of diesel. We would use $4 million a week for its importation but we are now consuming $14 million. This means demand has grown due to ongoing economic activities. Industry and farmers are demanding diesel as they are appreciating the thrust and vision of our president.