New Ai Camera System Capturing 15 000 Errant Drivers Every Week
Zimbabwe’s newly introduced Electronic Traffic Management System (ETMS) is reportedly identifying around 15,000 traffic offenders every week, with officials saying the rollout is gathering momentum.
The technology-driven system, which is being implemented through a partnership involving the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP), municipal police and telecommunications company TelOne, uses smart poles fitted with high-resolution cameras, radar systems and laser-tracking equipment.
The cameras automatically detect offences such as speeding, driving through red traffic lights, travelling against the flow of traffic and other violations.
Speaking to NewsDay on 16 June 2026, Harare City Council Chief Traffic Officer Martin Chimombe said the pilot programme was already producing significant results.
“The installation of automated traffic management infrastructure is moving with tremendous speed. The pilot project is already identifying at least 3 600 vehicles daily for violating council by-laws, including obstruction, parking outside designated bays and other offences.”
According to Chimombe, the pilot phase has exceeded expectations and authorities anticipate even higher numbers once the full rollout is completed.
“We want to thank TelOne for fully funding the project. The pilot phase has been a success and once the rollout is complete, we expect to capture more than 10 000 offending vehicles per week.”
How Zimbabwe’s Electronic Traffic Management System Works
Authorities say the ETMS can recognise both old and new Zimbabwean vehicle registration plates.
The cameras are connected to databases linked to the Central Vehicle Registry and the Zimbabwe National Road Administration, allowing vehicle owners to be identified almost instantly.
Instead of motorists being stopped on the roadside, violation notices and fines are sent electronically via email or mobile phone.
Payments can then be made through mobile banking platforms or at designated ZRP National Traffic offices.
One of the pilot sites is located at the intersection of Jason Moyo Avenue and Simon Muzenda Street in Harare.
Government Backs Smart Traffic Enforcement Rollout
The Ministry of ICT, Postal and Courier Services has welcomed the initiative, describing it as part of Zimbabwe’s broader Smart 2030 Master Plan.
In correspondence addressed to acting Town Clerk Warren Chiwawa, the ministry said the technology would contribute to safer roads and improved urban mobility.
“The Ministry of ICT, Postal and Courier Services developed the Smart 2030 Master Plan, which serves as a roadmap for the digital economy and guides the national vision of attaining upper-middle-income status by 2030.”
The ministry also commended Harare City Council officials involved in implementing the project.
Meanwhile, Chiwawa recently revealed that 58,830 vehicles were impounded by Harare City Council during 2025, generating more than US$1 million (approximately R18.1 million) in traffic-related fines. He also said more than 14,000 vehicles were impounded during the first quarter of 2026.
Authorities say smart enforcement technologies will play a growing role in future traffic management efforts as the programme expands to other cities and towns.
With thousands of motorists already being flagged every week, Zimbabwe’s AI-powered traffic monitoring system is rapidly becoming a major tool in road law enforcement. Authorities believe the technology will improve compliance with traffic regulations while reducing reliance on traditional roadside enforcement methods.
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