Harare Traffic Mayhem: One In Three Lights Not Working
Harare’s CBD has turned into a traffic nightmare — and now we know one of the reasons why. One in every three traffic lights in the city centre isn’t working.
A new report released by the City of Harare on 29 May 2025 paints a chaotic picture. Out of 69 traffic light-controlled intersections in the capital, only 48 are working. That means 21 intersections — or 31% — have no functioning signals.
“There are currently 69 signalised intersections within the CBD of Harare. At present 48 (69%) are operational and 31% are non-functional due to various reasons,” the City of Harare confirmed.
Lights out at major junctions
From broken controllers to full-scale vandalism, the reasons behind the traffic mess are as varied as they are worrying.
“Faulty controllers and accessories are to blame at some key intersections like R. Mugabe/4th Street and R. Manyika/4th Street,” said the City.
Some traffic lights have been hit by vandals and thieves.
“We’ve had equipment stolen or vandalised at H. Chitepo/4th and Orr Street/R. Manyika,” the report noted.
Power supply problems have also plunged some busy spots into darkness.
“ZETDC power outages have affected signals at places like Samora Machel/Sam Nujoma (2nd Street),” officials said.
And then there’s the construction chaos. Some lights were removed completely during road dualisation projects — and never came back.
“Intersections such as Nelson Mandela/J. Nyerere and Sam Nujoma/H. Chitepo were decommissioned during Ministry of Transport works,” the statement added.
What’s being done?
The City says it’s not ignoring the problem. Fixes are in motion.
“Plans are in place to repair non-functional installations. We’re currently going through procurement processes for parts and accessories.”
They’re also talking to ZETDC to get the power flowing again.
“We are engaging ZETDC to restore electricity at key intersections like Samora Machel/Sam Nujoma.”
In the meantime, they’re calling in reinforcements.
“Our municipal police will intensify efforts to assist at major intersections during peak hours,” said the City.
Big plans on the horizon
Long-term, Harare wants to install a high-tech Traffic Management System — something to keep signals running and vehicles moving.
“The new system will ensure coordination and synchronisation of traffic lights for smoother flow,” the city said.
“It will also include surveillance and enforcement tools to boost compliance with traffic regulations.”
But for now, motorists will have to cope with flashing hazards, hooting chaos, and a lot of guesswork at every second corner.
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The post Harare Drivers Left Guessing As One In Three Traffic Lights Fail appeared first on iHarare News.
