Justice at fingertips: Mash Central courts go digital 

Source: Justice at fingertips: Mash Central courts go digital – herald

Fungai Lupande

Mashonaland Central Bureau

ALL courts in Mashonaland Central Province officially transitioned to digital operations yesterday with the launch of the fourth phase of the Integrated Electronic Case Management System (IECMS) by the Judicial Service Commission (JSC).

This initiative seeks to enhance access to justice by enabling digital interactions within the magistrates’ courts across the province.

During a visit to Bindura, JSC secretary Mr Walter Chikwana announced that the digital system is now fully operational in all magistrates courts.

“This is a significant milestone. People can now file court documents and interact with the justice system digitally, eliminating the need to physically travel to different courts,” he said.

The introduction of the digital system promises increased efficiency, faster processing times and a reduction in the amount of paperwork involved in legal proceedings.

However, the JSC is mindful of the challenges related to internet access, technological devices and digital literacy, particularly in rural areas.

To address these challenges, Mr Chikwana said the JSC has established e-filing offices at every court, staffed with trained ICT officers available to assist the public.

“Even if you don’t have a device or internet access, you can walk into a court and use our computers for free,” he assured the community.

For larger courts like those in Bindura, Hwange and Victoria Falls, the JSC has set up Internet Hubs.

These facilities are equipped with modern computers, free Wi-Fi and support staff to help individuals file and track their cases online.

The Bindura Magistrates Court has already gone paperless, digitising all large files to streamline operations.

Mr Chikwana emphasised the goal of making justice more accessible: “The digitisation of courts is intended to serve the people, not frustrate them.”