Online Reporter
Ivan Zhakata
Zimpapers Correspondent
City Parking has expanded its self-service parking programme in Harare’s central business district, adding more streets to the unmanned digital payment system as part of its modernisation and digital transformation drive.
In a notice issued to motorists, City Parking said that with effect from tomorrow, a section of Central Avenue between Sam Nujoma Street and Simon Muzenda Street will operate as a fully self-service parking zone.
The development adds to existing self-service streets already in operation, namely Third Street between Jason Moyo Avenue and Robert Mugabe Road, and Park Street between Jason Moyo Avenue and Samora Machel Avenue.
City Parking said these sections will no longer be manned by parking marshals, with motorists required to make payments independently using digital platforms.
Drivers parking in the designated areas are advised to pay for parking by scanning QR codes displayed on street signage, dialling *192#, using the City Parking WhatsApp chatbot on 0719 515 601, or through the Park Assist mobile application.
The expansion comes against a background of persistent complaints by motorists over congestion, payment delays and frequent disputes with parking marshals in Harare’s CBD.
In recent years, City Parking has faced criticism from road users and civic groups over enforcement methods, manual payment systems and traffic bottlenecks caused by vehicles stopping to settle parking fees.
In response, the company has been gradually introducing technology-driven solutions aimed at improving efficiency, transparency and customer experience.
The self-service parking model was first piloted on selected streets, where it has been credited by motorists with reducing delays and easing tensions between drivers and parking attendants.
City Parking said the latest move forms part of a broader modernisation and digital transformation strategy that leverages automation and artificial intelligence to streamline operations.
The company said unmanned parking zones are expected to improve revenue collection, reduce operational costs and create a smoother parking experience for motorists.
