Zimbabwe to introduce POS machines at police roadblocks

The Government is set to roll out Point-of-Sale (POS) machines at all police roadblocks across the country, in a move aimed at enhancing transparency, curbing corruption, and improving convenience for motorists paying spot fines.

The initiative - spearheaded by the Ministry of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage in partnership with the Ministry of Information Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services - forms part of a broader effort to digitise law enforcement operations and align policing with Zimbabwe's e-Government and cashless economy agenda.

Authorities say the use of POS machines will minimise cash handling by police officers, ensure payments are made directly into Government accounts in real time, and reduce disputes between motorists and law enforcement officials.

Responding to questions in the National Assembly on Wednesday, ICT, Postal and Courier Services Minister Tatenda Mavetera said the rollout will leverage Starlink's satellite internet service to guarantee uninterrupted connectivity even in remote areas.

"It is important that there are Point-of-Sale machines whenever police are conducting roadblocks," said Minister Mavetera.

"Through collaboration with the Ministry of Home Affairs, we are ensuring reliable connectivity everywhere police operate. We are engaging Starlink to provide internet access so that POS machines function seamlessly across the country."

Starlink's low-orbit satellite network will enable POS systems to operate beyond traditional mobile coverage zones, particularly along highways and rural routes.

Minister Mavetera added that the move was part of Government's National Digital Transformation Strategy, which aims to modernise public services and promote financial inclusion.

Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage Permanent Secretary Ambassador Raphael Faranisi said the new system would enhance accountability and convenience for both motorists and law enforcement officers.

"It will obviously be convenient for those who have fallen foul of the law," he said.

"The introduction of POS machines eliminates the need for cash handling, improves transparency and reduces opportunities for corruption."

Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) national spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed that distribution of the POS devices would begin soon, describing the programme as part of ongoing efforts to modernise policing operations.

"It is an ongoing process, which forms part of our policing operations," said Comm Nyathi. "While I cannot provide exact timelines, this development will be convenient for both motorists and police."

The initiative dovetails with the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) and POTRAZ's national push to expand digital payment systems, especially in the informal sector. The RBZ is also working on deploying offline-compatible POS devices that can process transactions in areas with limited network coverage, ensuring full participation in the Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG)-based digital economy.

Meanwhile, Commissioner Nyathi addressed public concerns regarding the frequency and conduct of police roadblocks, emphasising that operations are regulated and supervised at multiple command levels.

"All police roadblock schedules are submitted by station, district and provincial commanders to Police General Headquarters for clearance," he said.

"No roadblocks are permitted within a 30 to 50-kilometre radius of each policing area, whether urban or rural."

He added that any increase in roadblocks typically coincides with national events or targeted operations to combat criminal activity, after which normal policing levels resume.

"Disciplinary action will be taken against any officer found conducting roadblocks outside police regulations," he said. "The ZRP remains committed to professionalism, transparency and public trust."