Middelburg – The Steve Tshwete municipality has reassured its traffic officers that their roles are secure, despite the introduction of automated machines that can handle nearly 70% of their duties.
As part of its goal to transform Middelburg into a Smart City, the municipality has brought in advanced traffic law enforcement cameras, known as iCams. These cutting-edge devices, equipped with artificial intelligence (AI), are designed to monitor road safety and ensure that motorists and cyclists abide by the rules.
At the launch of the Speed Law Enforcement initiative on Tuesday, 09 September 2025, acting municipal manager Dr Elizabeth Tshabalala said the iCams “will not take the place of our dedicated traffic officers; instead, they are here to support and enhance their work. Therefore, their jobs are entirely secure and safe”.
These innovative cameras can detect up to a 500m distance vehicles with outstanding traffic fines, catch speeders and issue virtual fines without the need for human oversight.
The municipality employs 71 traffic officers who work in shifts. Their duties include conducting roadworthy inspections, issuing notices, managing traffic incidents and helping to prevent accidents.
Dr Tshabalala pointed out that it’s important to clarify that not all 71 officers are on duty at the same time. Furthermore, their responsibilities extend not only to Middelburg but to the entire Steve Tshwete municipality, including to areas like Hendrina, Rietkuil and more.
She emphasised that the project’s aim is not merely to generate revenue but to bolster traffic law enforcement for the safety of all road users. “It’s no longer practical to station traffic officers at every intersection or high-risk area. This project will empower us to broaden our reach and enhance our services in areas where we otherwise couldn’t.”
She mentioned that the project has garnered support from both judicial and prosecution. “We have sought approval from the Director of Public Prosecutions to move forward with this initiative, and they have granted us the go-ahead. We’ve also collaborated with the magistrates court, and they grasp the significance of our efforts. Both authorities play a crucial role for us, as any tickets issued that remain unpaid will ultimately find their way to the magistrates court.”
The municipality has inked a three-year agreement with Traffic Management Technologies (TMT) to supply and maintain the automated systems aimed at enhancing traffic law enforcement throughout the area.
These multifunctional devices will be deployed in high-risk areas to enhance public safety. They offer ultra-high (4K) definition video and images, coupled with speed camera technology for top-notch evidence collection.
These cameras are equipped with automated red-light and advanced real-time number plate recognition (ANPR) capabilities, seamlessly integrated with iForce back-office software and handheld iTicket devices.
Middelburg has received a total of 12 fixed units and six portable ones, with an extra two portable units allocated for Hendrina.
Corrie Meyer, TMT’s regional manager shared that the deal guarantees that the devices will undergo routine maintenance and calibration every six months, keeping them in top-notch condition to maintain their accuracy.
Meyer also highlighted the importance of training, stating that officers must be properly trained and certified to operate the devices before they can be put into action.
Deputy director of the traffic department, Frank Mohloana, told Highveld Chronicle that 22 officers have already completed their training.
Mohloana echoed Dr. Tshabalala’s sentiments, assuring the officers that the introduction of iCams will not threaten their jobs. “These devices will play a crucial role in enhancing our efficiency, especially when traffic officers are responding to accidents. They’ll help document multiple vehicles at once, unlike what a single officer could manage,” he explained.
Mohloana added: “Rest assured, no jobs will be lost due to these innovations. In fact, we are looking to expand our team! Currently, we have three vacant positions; one has already been filled, and the other two are now advertised.”
Public Safety MMC Joseph Ngubeni emphasised that the installation of cameras will discourage dangerous driving habits, such as speeding and ignoring traffic signals.
He also pointed out that while AI could take over repetitive, rule-driven tasks, it will simultaneously create fresh opportunities in areas like AI management, data analysis, and ethics compliance—fields that inherently require a human touch.
“To address these challenges, we must focus on upskilling and reskilling our workforce. Investing in educational and training programs is essential to equip workers with the skills that will enhance their ability to work alongside AI,” he stated.
