Harare AI Traffic Cameras To Start Issuing Digital Fines In June 2026

Motorists in Harare will soon face automated traffic fines after the government confirmed that 20 artificial intelligence-powered “Robocop” traffic cameras will begin testing in June 2026 under Zimbabwe’s new Smart Traffic Management System. The high-tech traffic enforcement project, being spearheaded by the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP), is designed to detect speeding, red-light violations, illegal turns, and dangerous driving using AI-powered surveillance technology. Authorities say installation works are now at an advanced stage, with fibre internet connectivity completed at 95 percent of the targeted intersections across the capital.

Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage, Raphael Faranisi, confirmed that smart poles have already been installed at all 20 selected sites.

“The Smart Traffic Management System is progressing well, and we are satisfied with the developments achieved so far,” Ambassador Faranisi told The Sunday Mail.

According to Government officials, some of the intersections already fitted with the new AI traffic cameras include:

• Jason Moyo Avenue and Simon Muzenda Street

• Samora Machel Avenue and Glenara Avenue

• Leopold Takawira Street and Herbert Chitepo Avenue

• Robert Mugabe Road and Abdel Gamal Nasser Road

The cameras will use Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) technology to capture vehicle registration details and automatically generate digital evidence for traffic offences. The system will relay information to a command and control centre at CID Headquarters in Harare.

The government says the AI-powered traffic camera system aims to reduce road accidents and improve compliance with traffic laws in Zimbabwe.

The technology will automatically detect:

• Speeding violations

• Red-light offences

• Illegal parking

• Driving against the traffic flow

• Mobile phone use while driving

ICT Minister Tatenda Mavetera recently said the system forms part of Zimbabwe’s wider digital transformation strategy.

“We have developed a system where traffic offences are automatically detected through cameras, including running red lights and dangerous parking,” Mavetera said.

Transport analysts say automated enforcement could significantly reduce corruption linked to manual traffic policing.

Harare-based road safety consultant Engineer Tendai Muchengeti said smart traffic monitoring systems used in countries such as Rwanda and South Africa have improved road discipline.

“AI traffic enforcement reduces human interference and increases accountability. However, public education will be critical before penalties are fully enforced,” he said.

Some Harare motorists welcomed the move, saying reckless driving has become a major problem in the capital.

“Drivers no longer respect traffic lights, especially during rush hour. If these cameras work properly, they may restore order on our roads,” said commuter omnibus driver Shepherd Chikuni in the CBD on Sunday.

However, other drivers expressed concerns over possible technical glitches and transparency in the issuing of digital fines.

Government says motorists will be able to receive, verify, and pay fines electronically through an integrated digital ticketing platform linked to the Central Vehicle Registry, ZINARA, and CBZ payment systems. The Harare rollout marks the first phase of the national smart policing programme before expansion to Bulawayo and other cities.

Harare AI traffic cameras