Online Reporter
Freeman Razemba
Crime Reporter
THE Government has reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining police roadblocks across the country, a move aimed at preserving peace, promoting road safety, and preventing lawlessness on Zimbabwe’s roads.
Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage Minister, Kazembe Kazembe, emphasised that these efforts are part of a broader strategy to improve traffic management and reduce incidents of road carnage, congestion, and corruption.
Central to this strategy is the imminent deployment of a cutting-edge multi-million-dollar smart traffic management system, with plans already at advanced stages.
In a statement, Minister Kazembe revealed that a Dubai-based company, Vitronic Machine Vision Middle East, will spearhead the project through a public-private partnership.
The company is set to inject an initial investment of approximately US$80 million into this transformative initiative.
The system will leverage technology to address various traffic-related challenges, ensuring that offenders are held accountable and that no individual – regardless of their status or connections – escapes the consequences of breaking the law.
Minister Kazembe expressed satisfaction with the increased police presence on roads, noting visible improvements in traffic control and public safety.
He defended the decision to maintain roadblocks and patrols, citing public ambivalence.
“Our people complain when police presence increases, and they complain when it is reduced. We have resolved to let the law guide us. The police will enforce regulations firmly, whether people complain or not,” he said.
The Minister commended the law enforcement authorities, particularly the Commissioner General, for their efforts in promoting road discipline and pledged to sustain this momentum.
He underscored the importance of transitioning to electronic traffic management, highlighting its impartiality and efficiency.
“This year, our priority is deploying an electronic traffic management system. Technology doesn’t discriminate – it does not care about your face, relationship, or status. It ensures fairness and holds everyone accountable.
“By the end of this year, we will have this solution in place, and it will end the chaos on our roads,” he stated with conviction.
While the system is being implemented, police presence, roadblocks, and traffic controls will remain essential tools for maintaining order.
Minister Kazembe also called on drivers to adhere to traffic laws and urged the public to collaborate with the police in upholding safety standards.
He warned that reckless drivers and lawbreakers would face strict penalties, with plans underway to enforce deterrent measures against errant motorists.
On another note, the Minister addressed concerns about police conduct, particularly following the reintroduction of the Police Retention Fund.
The fund, created to enable Government departments to retain part of their revenue for essential operations, has raised public complaints about fines collected by officers.
Speaking at the 2025 Senior Officers Conference in Harare, Minister Kazembe reminded law enforcement officials of their duty to respect citizens while enforcing the law.
“The Police Retention Fund is operational, but it must never justify the disrespect of citizens or motorists by officers,” he said.
“As commanders, you must ensure that the organisation’s values and principles are upheld at all times. Complaints from motorists undermine the efforts to build trust in the police force and, by extension, the Ministry and the Government.”
Minister Kazembe further urged senior officers to inspire and motivate their subordinates while remaining focused on the overarching vision of ensuring a safe and secure Zimbabwe.
He stressed the need for robust supervision mechanisms at police stations and units to reinforce accountability and professionalism within the force.
