Zimbabwe pledges tech-driven traffic system

The Government says it is prioritising a technology-based traffic management system to curb road carnage, amid growing calls in Parliament for police to be equipped with breathalysers to tackle drunk driving.

During a debate in the National Assembly, Proportional Representation MP for Masvingo Province Tendeukai Matara raised concerns over the rising number of fatal accidents linked to alcohol consumption, urging that police be armed with handheld breathalysers.

Responding on behalf of the Ministry of Home Affairs, Justice Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi said the government is focusing on integrated traffic management technology rather than relying solely on breathalysers.

"We are moving to new technology to deal with the traffic menace. Breathalysers may not be the solution, but a traffic management system that removes the human interface will be more effective. With a camera, once you are captured, it is a permanent footprint," Ziyambi said.

Opposition MPs challenged the approach. Kuwadzana East MP Chalton Hwende questioned the practicality, asking, "There is no technology in which a camera can detect if the driver is drunk. Can the minister clarify the technology he is alluding to?"

Ziyambi responded, "Alcohol does not kill anyone, but driving illegally kills. When a camera captures such a person, appropriate action will follow." He reassured Parliament that pilot projects are already underway in collaboration with NetOne, with traffic offenders' names being published as part of trial runs.

The debate also touched on broader issues of drug and alcohol abuse. Mufakose legislator Susan Matsunga inquired about measures to curb the supply of illicit substances such as mutoriro and homemade brews.

Transport Minister Felix Mhona outlined government strategies, noting that President Emmerson Mnangagwa has established a Cabinet Committee, led by Minister Oppah Muchinguri, which meets weekly to coordinate law enforcement efforts and set up rehabilitation centres nationwide.

Minister Mhona also highlighted the involvement of First Lady Auxillia Mnangagwa, who has championed new rehabilitation facilities, and the upcoming establishment of a National Anti-Drug and Substance Abuse Agency aimed at reducing the prevalence of substance abuse across Zimbabwe.