Harare Motorists To Receive Digital Traffic Fines Under New AI System
Harare motorists will begin facing fines from 20 artificial intelligence-powered “Robocop” traffic cameras starting in June 2026 after the Government confirmed that testing of the new smart enforcement system is set to begin next month.
The high-tech surveillance system is being installed at key intersections across the capital under the Smart Traffic Management System being spearheaded by the Zimbabwe Republic Police. Authorities say the cameras will automatically detect speeding, red-light violations and other traffic offences before generating digital evidence for enforcement action.
According to The Sunday Mail, installation works are now in their final stages, with fibre internet connectivity already completed at 95 percent of the targeted intersections.
AI “Robocop” Cameras Almost Ready
Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage, Raphael Faranisi, said major progress had already been made on the project.
“The Smart Traffic Management System is progressing well and we are satisfied with the developments achieved so far. Installation of smart poles at all the 20 identified intersections has been completed and work is continuing on the installation of traffic cameras,” Amb Faranisi told The Sunday Mail.
Authorities confirmed that installation of cameras has already been completed at the intersection of Jason Moyo Avenue and Simon Muzenda Street.
Works are also continuing at Samora Machel Avenue and Glenara Avenue, Leopold Takawira Street and Herbert Chitepo Avenue, as well as Robert Mugabe Road and Abdel Gamal Nasser Road.
Amb Faranisi said preliminary testing of the system would begin during the first week of June 2026.
“The testing phase will focus on assessing system functionality, reliability, network stability and overall operational readiness before full implementation,” he said.
The government also confirmed that solar-powered backup systems were being installed to ensure uninterrupted operation during power cuts.
Drivers To Receive Digital Traffic Fines
The AI-powered cameras will reportedly use image recognition technology to detect and record offences automatically without constant human monitoring.
Authorities say the system will identify speeding motorists, drivers who jump red lights and those driving against traffic flow.
The cameras will capture number plates using Automatic Number Plate Recognition technology before linking offences to vehicle and driver records.
All information will then be transmitted to a command and control centre being established at the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) Headquarters in Harare.
“Tiling and partitioning works have already been completed, while technicians are currently working on painting, air conditioning and furniture installations,” Amb Faranisi said while giving an update on the command centre.
He added that large monitoring screens and computer systems would soon be installed before the system goes live.
Banks And National Databases To Be Linked
The government revealed that the Traffic Fines Ticketing System linked to the project is now 95 per cent complete.
The electronic platform will allow motorists to receive, verify and pay traffic fines digitally.
Authorities say the system will integrate with databases from the Central Vehicle Registry and the Zimbabwe National Road Administration (ZINARA), as well as banking platforms including the CBZ Holdings payment gateway.
“The system will improve road safety and compliance with traffic regulations while enhancing the efficiency of law-enforcement agencies through automated monitoring,” said Amb Faranisi.
The government says the Harare rollout forms the first phase of the project before expansion to Bulawayo.
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