Cape Town is taking a cautious approach to the use of artificial intelligence in traffic enforcement, following early results from a pilot project that used AI powered cameras to detect seatbelt violations, mobile phone use while driving, and other road offences.
City officials say there are no immediate plans for a large scale rollout. Instead, the municipality has asked South Africa’s National Director of Public Prosecutions for guidance on whether evidence generated by AI enabled cameras would be legally admissible in court. The response is expected to determine how quickly, or whether, the technology becomes part of routine enforcement.
The pilot, launched in late 2024 in partnership with the Road Traffic Management Corporation, tested whether the cameras could reliably track moving vehicles, capture images of suspected offences, and flag them for human review. According to the city, every potential violation identified by the system is verified by an official before any fine or penalty is issued.
Cape Town’s interest in AI enforcement reflects growing pressure on traffic authorities. The city recorded more than 2.7 million traffic offences in the last financial year, while enforcement teams continue to face staffing constraints. Officials say technology is increasingly used to support limited human capacity, alongside the city’s existing network of static and mobile speed cameras.
Any expansion of AI traffic monitoring would need to comply with South Africa’s Protection of Personal Information Act, which places strict conditions on the collection and use of biometric and image data. Legal experts note that beyond privacy rules, AI generated evidence must also meet criminal procedure standards around accuracy, transparency, and the right of accused persons to challenge how conclusions are reached.
For now, Cape Town’s position is measured. The city says AI may play a larger role in road safety over time, but only if prosecutors are satisfied the systems can stand up to legal scrutiny and maintain public trust.
Category: Tech
Tags: Artificial Intelligence, Urban Mobility