Mnangagwa's govt to maintain police roadblocks

The Zimbabwean government has reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining police roadblocks across the country as part of efforts to preserve peace, promote road safety, and curb lawlessness.

Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage Minister, Kazembe Kazembe, stated that these measures form part of a broader strategy to improve traffic management, reduce road carnage, ease congestion, and combat corruption.

A key component of this initiative is the planned deployment of a state-of-the-art multi-million-dollar smart traffic management system. The government has partnered with Dubai-based company Vitronic Machine Vision Middle East, which will implement the project through a public-private partnership. The company is set to inject an initial investment of approximately US$80 million into the initiative.

The system will leverage advanced technology to address various traffic-related challenges, ensuring that all offenders, regardless of status or connections, are held accountable under the law.

Minister Kazembe expressed satisfaction with the increased police presence on roads, citing visible improvements in traffic control and public safety. He defended the continued use of roadblocks and patrols, addressing public concerns over their necessity.

"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 praised law enforcement authorities, particularly the Commissioner General, for their dedication to road discipline and pledged to sustain this momentum. He also emphasized the importance of transitioning to electronic traffic management to enhance 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.

Until the system is fully operational, roadblocks and police patrols will remain key tools for maintaining order. Minister Kazembe urged drivers to comply with traffic laws and called for public cooperation with law enforcement to uphold safety standards. He warned that reckless drivers and other lawbreakers would face strict penalties, with plans to introduce deterrent measures against errant motorists.

In addition, the Minister addressed concerns about police conduct following the reintroduction of the Police Retention Fund. The fund allows government departments to retain part of their revenue for essential operations, but some citizens have raised 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 enforce the law while treating citizens with respect.

"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."

He further urged senior officers to inspire and motivate their subordinates while remaining focused on the overarching vision of ensuring a safe and secure Zimbabwe. Robust supervision mechanisms will be enforced at police stations and units to reinforce accountability and professionalism within the force.