By Staff Reporter
HARARE — The City of Harare is moving to modernise its traffic enforcement systems through the adoption of smart technologies, amid rising concern over road indiscipline and officer safety, Chamber Secretary Warren Chiwawa has said.
Speaking during a Traffic Enforcement Officers Master Parade on Thursday, Chiwawa said the city was prioritising the integration of technology to improve efficiency and transparency in traffic management.
“Looking ahead, one of our key priorities is the adaptation of smart enforcement.
“The integration of technology into traffic management will improve efficiency, enhance transparency and reduce unnecessary human interface,” he said.
He added that the shift would require urgent legislative alignment and coordination with relevant authorities, noting that smarter systems could also help address persistent congestion in Harare’s urban environment.
Chiwawa emphasised the need for firm and consistent enforcement against reckless motorists, warning that lawlessness on the roads would not be tolerated.
“Equally critical is the need to decisively deal with rogue drivers, particularly those who deliberately disregard traffic laws and endanger lives.
“Enforcement must remain firm, fair and consistent,” he said.
Chiwawa also highlighted the importance of inter-agency collaboration, pointing to ongoing partnerships with key institutions such as the Central Vehicle Registry (CVR), Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) and the Zimbabwe National Road Administration (ZINARA).
“Through coordinated systems, offenders can be effectively flagged and penalised, particularly before accessing services such as licensing and vehicle registration,” he said.
Despite acknowledging the efforts of traffic enforcement officers, Chiwawa raised concern over growing risks faced by personnel.
He revealed that 2025 recorded the highest number of serious injuries among officers, with some sustaining permanent disabilities in the line of duty.
“This must also remind us to fully observe safety measures as we carry out our daily routine duties and maintain operational effectiveness,” he said.
On performance, Chiwawa said enforcement operations had yielded significant results. In 2025, a total of 58,830 vehicles were impounded or clamped, generating over US$1.1 million in revenue.
“This reflects both the scale of enforcement and the extent of non-compliance we continue to address,” he said, adding that the figures underscored the need for “sustained, focused and strategic enforcement.”
He further outlined 2026 first-quarter statistics, noting that 4,428 vehicles were impounded in January, 4,167 in February and 4,605 in March, bringing in US$87,376.
Chiwawa commended traffic officers for their professionalism, describing their role as “central to the effective management of road safety” and vital to maintaining public order and economic activity.
“This parade is not merely ceremonial. It stands as a visible demonstration of discipline, preparedness, and the high standards that define the Public Safety Division,” he said.
