The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) is considering expanding the Smart Transport Management System (STMS) as authorities intensify efforts to curb road accidents, with human error accounting for 94% of crashes recorded in the country.
The system is currently operational at 20 intersections in Harare’s Central Business District (CBD), where cameras and sensors are used to monitor traffic flow and detect road traffic violations.
The technology allows officers at ZRP headquarters to remotely monitor the movement of motorists and pedestrians and identify road users who violate traffic regulations.
Speaking at a road safety workshop for journalists in Harare, on Thursday, ZRP national spokesperson, Commissioner Paul Nyathi, said the police intended to extend the system’s reach.
“This system is very advanced in such a way that we monitor all movement of motorists and pedestrians at our headquarters as the cameras and sensors record all the vehicles that misbehave on our roads,” he said.
The proposed expansion comes as the Traffic Safety Council of Zimbabwe (TSCZ) identifies human error as the leading cause of road traffic accidents, accounting for 94% of crashes, while poor road infrastructure contributes two percent.
TSCZ managing director, Munesu Munodawafa, said the statistics underscored the need for a comprehensive approach to improving road safety.
“We have realised that only two percent of the accidents are as a result of poor road infrastructure, and we are happy that some of the major highways are navigable and are in good shape, but due to human error, we still record several accidents, and it is a challenge that needs a holistic approach to avoid these road carnages,” he said.
The figures highlight the need for greater compliance with traffic regulations, alongside sustained public education and the use of technology to improve monitoring and enforcement.
Journalists attending the workshop pledged to promote road safety through responsible reporting and public awareness campaigns.
The workshop was held under the theme, “Promoting Road Safety Through Responsible and Solution-Based Journalism, Technology and Public Awareness”.
The proposed expansion of the system, coupled with public awareness and responsible road use, is expected to strengthen traffic law enforcement, discourage reckless driving and improve road safety. This could mean safer roads, fewer accidents, reduced loss of life and property, and more reliable journeys for motorists, pedestrians and other road users.
