ZRP Rolls Out Body-Worn Cameras Nationwide to Boost Accountability

Zimbabwe rolls out body-worn cameras nationwide as the ZRP adopts modern policing tools to enhance transparency, accountability and evidence-based law enforcement (image source)

Harare — The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has begun the nationwide deployment of body-worn cameras, a move officials describe as a landmark step toward modernising policing and strengthening transparency, accountability and public confidence.

National police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed the rollout in comments carried by B-Metro, noting that devices have already been dispatched to all provinces. Provincial commanders will determine allocation and operational deployment, with training underway as part of a phased implementation programme. “Yes, the process has started. We have distributed the cameras to all the provinces, and it’s the prerogative of the Officer Commanding the province on how those cameras will be distributed,” Comm Nyathi said, adding that officer training will continue throughout the rollout.

Body-worn cameras capture real-time audio and visual recordings during police interactions with motorists, suspects, victims and witnesses. International studies show the technology can reduce complaints of misconduct, lower confrontation rates and improve evidence reliability. For Zimbabwe, the cameras are expected to enhance documentation at roadblocks, arrests, searches and public-order operations, while also strengthening internal disciplinary processes. Human-rights groups and civil-society organisations have long advocated for objective recording tools to curb harassment, corruption and excessive force. The adoption of body-worn cameras marks a direct response to those calls and signals a shift toward evidence-based, accountable policing.

While the ZRP has not disclosed the number of devices issued or a detailed timeline for full adoption, sources indicate the first phase will prioritise high-visibility units in urban areas — particularly traffic and public-order sections — before expanding to rural districts and specialised teams. Training remains central to the rollout, with policy guidelines on when devices should be activated, how footage will be stored, and how recordings will be used in disciplinary matters currently being finalised.

Experts warn that the programme’s credibility depends on strong data-management systems, including secure storage, strict access controls, tamper-proof chain-of-custody protocols and clear regulations for mandatory activation. Without these safeguards, concerns may arise over selective recording or misuse of video evidence. Analysts also emphasise the importance of independent oversight to ensure transparency and public trust, especially in disputed cases or when footage captures misconduct.

Early public reaction has been cautiously positive. Many citizens view the cameras as a potential deterrent to abuse of authority and corruption, while advocacy groups urge the ZRP to ensure consistent use of the devices and to publish clear accountability procedures. Calls have also been made for timely access to footage in contested incidents to reinforce confidence in the system.

As the programme moves from distribution to practical deployment, the coming months will test how effectively the ZRP integrates the technology into daily policing. If backed by strong governance, transparent oversight and consistent use, body-worn cameras could represent a major step toward a more professional and trusted police service in Zimbabwe.