Online Reporter
Nyore Madzianike
Senior Reporter
THE Judicial Service Commission (JSC) will tomorrow digitise 16 magistrates’ courts in Matabeleland South and Masvingo provinces, marking a significant milestone in the transformation of Zimbabwe’s judicial system.
The initiative falls under Phase 4:2 of the Integrated Electronic Case Management System (IECMS), which is aimed at enhancing the efficiency, transparency and accessibility of justice.
Ten court stations in Masvingo Province and six stations in Matabeleland South are set for digitisation.
JSC spokesperson Mr Daniel Nemukuyu said: “Today marks a significant milestone in the ongoing transformation of the judicial system in Zimbabwe as we officially launch the digitalisation of all 16 magistrates’ courts in Matabeleland South and Masvingo
provinces.”
Mr Nemukuyu highlighted that the IECMS will streamline case management, reduce delays, and ensure secure and accessible court records.
“The transition to a digital framework is a pivotal step towards modernising our courts,” he said.
He noted that the system is not only paperless—eliminating printing and photocopying costs—but also cost-effective, with reduced travel expenses due to the introduction of virtual civil court sessions.
“It is paperless, meaning that printing and photocopying costs will become a thing of the past,” he said.
“Travel expenses will be significantly reduced, considering that some civil court sessions will be conducted virtually.”
He added that the system enhances communication and accountability in judicial processes.
“The system saves time and improves communication. On the IECMS platform, court users will receive updates on the development of each case via email or text message.”
To uphold professional integrity, Mr Nemukuyu said lawyer registration on the platform will be regulated through the Law Society of Zimbabwe, ensuring that bogus lawyers are excluded.
Members of the public will also benefit through services such as e-payment of fees, e-filing of case documents, online case tracking, virtual court hearings, and access to judgments.
Mr Nemukuyu acknowledged the support of key institutions in the implementation of the project.
“As we embark on this journey, we acknowledge the collaborative efforts of various stakeholders, including the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP), Law Society of Zimbabwe (LSZ), Ministry of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs, Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC), Zimbabwe Prison and Correctional Service (ZPCS), and others who have supported this initiative.”
He expressed confidence that the programme would be successfully rolled out across the country.
“We are confident that the digitalisation of the magistrates’ courts will be smoothly implemented in the remaining provinces.”
The current rollout follows the successful digitisation of magistrates’ courts in Mashonaland Central and Matabeleland North on July 1, 2025 under Phase 4:1 of the IECMS.
The JSC will now move to Mashonaland East and Manicaland under Phase 4:3 of the IECMS.
“Together, we are building a more efficient, transparent, and accessible justice system for all Zimbabweans,” Mr Nemukuyu said.
