Zimbabwe to Use Starlink for POS Machines at Police Roadblocks

Starlink to Enable Cashless Payments at Police Roadblocks

Government is turning to Starlink’s satellite internet technology to support a major shift toward digital policing, with Point-of-Sale (POS) machines set to be introduced at police roadblocks countrywide.

Authorities say the move will improve transparency in spot fine payments, reduce reliance on cash, and make the process more convenient for motorists.

The programme is being driven jointly by the Ministry of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage and the Ministry of Information Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services as part of Zimbabwe’s wider digital transformation agenda.

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Reliable Connectivity Anywhere in the Country

Addressing legislators in the National Assembly, ICT Minister Tatenda Mavetera said the new system would not be hindered by weak network coverage.

“It is important that there are Point-of-Sale machines whenever police are conducting roadblocks,” said Minister Mavetera.

Starlink to Enable Cashless Payments at Police Roadblocks (Image Credit: NewsDay)

She explained that Starlink’s satellite infrastructure would ensure consistent communication along major and remote highways alike.

“The Government, through collaboration between the Ministry of ICT and the Ministry of Home Affairs, is working to ensure that connectivity is available everywhere police operate. We are engaging Starlink to provide reliable internet access so that POS machines can function seamlessly across the country.”

Curbing Corruption and Strengthening Accountability

Home Affairs Permanent Secretary Ambassador Raphael Faranisi highlighted that digital payments would significantly reduce contact with cash — a long-standing corruption risk.

“It will obviously be convenient for those who have fallen foul of the law.

“Since spot fines are a legal part of our enforcement system, the introduction of POS machines will eliminate the need for cash handling, improve accountability and reduce opportunities for corruption,” he said.

Police Gear Up for Deployment

Zimbabwe Republic Police national spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed the rollout is underway.

“It is an ongoing process, which is part of policing operations.
At the moment I cannot give exact timelines, but it will be convenient for motorists as well as for the police,” he said.

Supporting a Cashless Economy

The system aligns with broader national plans to expand the use of electronic payments and strengthen confidence in the Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG) currency.

The Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe is also introducing POS technology capable of working offline to cover areas with intermittent power and connectivity.

Operational Standards Remain in Force at Checkpoints

Commissioner Nyathi also reassured the public that all roadblocks must remain compliant with strict internal guidelines and that supervisors are mandated to monitor conduct.

“Soon after, the situation has to revert back to the ideal scenario,” he said, warning that disciplinary action awaits any officer violating operational policy.