Harare Smart Traffic System Flags Over 2 Million Vehicles, But Motorists Won’t Be Penalised Without Validation
More than two million vehicles have been flagged by Harare’s new electronic traffic management system as authorities intensify efforts to tackle road offences.
However, Government says motorists will not automatically face penalties simply because they were captured by the cameras.
Every incident recorded at monitored intersections will undergo a validation process before enforcement action is taken.
Also Read: 15 000 Errant Drivers Caught Every Week As Zimbabwe Rolls Out AI Traffic Cameras
Cameras Capture Traffic Offences
According to ZBC, Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage Minister Kazembe Kazembe inspected more than 20 locations fitted with the technology on Thursday.
He also visited the system’s command centre in Harare, where officials demonstrated how traffic incidents are monitored and reviewed.
The system is being implemented through a partnership between the Zimbabwe Republic Police and TelOne.
It is designed to detect several traffic violations, including driving while using a mobile phone and failing to wear a seat belt.
Minister Kazembe said the technology could significantly improve discipline among motorists.
He said the number of vehicles already flagged demonstrated the scale of activity being monitored across the capital.
Motorists To Get Protection From Unfair Penalties
A key concern for motorists has been whether cameras could issue penalties when drivers are forced to break traffic rules by police officers.
Minister Kazembe sought to address those concerns, saying such situations would also be captured by the system.
He explained that motorists directed by police officers to pass through a red traffic light would not be penalised.
The footage would provide evidence that the driver was acting under police direction.
Authorities would then assess the circumstances before deciding whether an offence had actually occurred.
The minister said the validation process was intended to prevent motorists from being unfairly punished.
System Also Covers Faulty Traffic Lights
The electronic system is not limited to detecting motorists who violate traffic rules.
It also creates a record of activity at intersections when traffic lights are not working.
This gives authorities additional information when assessing incidents at monitored locations.
The cameras could also assist with security by recording crimes occurring around busy intersections.
Minister Kazembe said incidents such as smash-and-grab attacks could potentially be captured by the surveillance network.
Mnangagwa Set To Officially Launch System
Government is now preparing for the official launch of the electronic traffic management system.
President Emmerson Mnangagwa is expected to formally launch the system as authorities strengthen enforcement of traffic regulations.
The rollout forms part of broader efforts to improve road safety and restore order on Harare’s roads.
With millions of vehicles already flagged, authorities are expected to focus on validating suspected offences before penalties are issued.
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