By Irvin Takavada
The recent ban on tinted windows for all motor vehicles, except for a few exceptions, has revealed a significant failure in policy-making. It is truly astonishing that grown men and women had to sit down—funded by taxpayers’ money—to debate something as trivial as tinted windows.
One of the most laughable points made was that having clear windows in all cars would deter armed robbers. This argument had me cracking up because it oversimplifies a complex security issue. In reality, tinted windows serve several important purposes: they deter smash-and-grab thefts by obscuring valuables inside vehicles; they reduce sunlight exposure for individuals with health conditions sensitive to UV rays; they protect the vehicle’s interior from sun damage; and they provide privacy, especially at night, so potential thieves cannot easily see how many people are inside.
Regarding armed robberies, I strongly believe the presence or absence of tinted windows in vehicles will have little to no effect on deterring criminals. The true solution to reducing armed robbery lies not in superficial regulations but in the establishment of well-organized neighborhood watch programs, enforced and supported by national security teams in every community.
Zimbabwe currently has SI129/15, which sets the standards for vehicle tinting. The fact that the ministry convened and chose to override or neglect this existing law reflects a worrying trend of lawlessness and lack of respect for established regulations. The rushed announcement through media channels signals a “big brother” mentality and demonstrates blatant disregard for the frameworks already in place. Those in government seem to believe they are above the law, acting as law unto themselves, and this behavior must stop if Zimbabwe is to gain respect both locally and internationally.
Adding to the confusion, presidential spokesperson George Charamba publicly dismissed the ban shortly after it was announced. This contradictory messaging from high-level officials has sown confusion among the public and enforcement agencies alike, undermining the credibility of the government and creating uncertainty about which rules are actually in force. Such mixed signals only serve to weaken the rule of law and hamper effective governance.
This tinted window saga made me reflect on what I had truly hoped the government would prioritize—namely, stronger traffic laws and stricter enforcement targeted especially at public transport operators. We are witnessing rampant lawlessness with unruly taxi operators and commuter omnibus drivers flouting traffic rules, including driving against oncoming traffic, putting all road users at grave risk.
Social media was awash with videos of buses such as Timboom blatantly ignoring police instructions. Such reckless behavior must be curbed urgently to safeguard road users.
Moreover, I believe the authorities should consider introducing random and mandatory drug testing as a requirement for obtaining or renewing a driver’s license. Enforcing drug tests at roadside checkpoints would be an effective deterrent against impaired driving, which is a major contributor to accidents and fatalities on our roads.
It is also critical that the government opens formal platforms for citizens to contribute ideas and solutions on pressing issues they struggle with. Meaningful public participation would foster transparency, accountability, and more practical, inclusive policies—essential ingredients for building a better Zimbabwe.
In conclusion, while the tinted windows ban appears trivial, it exposes serious underlying issues of governance, misplaced priorities, and the urgent need for comprehensive road safety reforms. Instead of focusing on banning tints, the government should address the root causes of crime and road accidents with community-driven security initiatives, robust law enforcement on public transport, and road safety reforms informed by public input. Clear, consistent communication from government officials must also be prioritized.
Irvin Takavada is a social commentator and writes in his own personal capacity and can be reached on 0771119337.
