Online Reporter
Rutendo Nyeve, Zimpapers Writer
THE Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has commenced the implementation of the fourth phase of its Integrated Electronic Case Management System (IECMS) within the magistrates’ courts, with Matabeleland North and Mashonaland Central serving as the pilot provinces.
The IECMS integrates all aspects of case management, from electronic filing to virtual hearings, across justice sector institutions.
The system, designed to eliminate paper-based processes, has already streamlined workflows in higher courts, reducing delays and improving transparency.
As part of rolling out the fourth phase in Matabeleland North province, the JSC is conducting training sessions with key stakeholders in Hwange.
In an interview with the JSC Secretary, Mr Walter Chikwana, in Victoria Falls on Friday, he revealed that the fourth phase marks a significant expansion of the digital platform aimed at transforming Zimbabwe’s justice delivery system through automation and enhanced accessibility.
“We look at the digitalisation of the courts from various perspectives, but the most fundamental thing is the desire of the JSC to enhance access to justice for the downtrodden, persons with disabilities, those that cannot afford it, and those that are restricted from going to courts because of economic disadvantages.
“We are creating a platform and avenues for the elderly to be able to access the court from the comfort of their rural homes or from the nearest place where internet can be accessed. That way, we believe that we are changing the normal and ordinary way of doing things,” said Mr Chikwana.
He noted that the justice system has been plagued by corruption allegations, which the digitalisation of the courts is expected to curb.
“Most prominent corruption allegations have been the missing of dockets, even from police stations, but we are concerned about the courts where we have had serious incidences of missing files and court records.
“That will be a thing of the past and a yesterday story because of the digitalisation programme that is coming in,” said Mr Chikwana.
He said that the magistrates’ courts will no longer be receiving handwritten dockets.
This latest phase introduces advanced features, including real-time case tracking for the public and expanded virtual court capabilities. Matabeleland North, recognised for its successful adoption during earlier phases, will test these upgrades before nationwide implementation.
“We are here in Victoria Falls, which is one of the stations in Matabeleland North that will pioneer the fourth phase of the IECMS, to raise awareness and train key stakeholders, such as the Zimbabwe Republic Police and the National Prosecuting Authority, who will collaborate to ensure seamless integration,” said Mr Chikwana.
He assured the nation of enhanced efficiency, where instant access to case statuses and digital filings will reduce administrative burdens.
“We are also looking at inclusivity, where more hearings will enable participation from rural communities, aligning with the ‘Leaving No One Behind’ initiative. We are also promoting transparency through public access to real-time updates, fostering trust in judicial processes,” said Mr Chikwana.
The first phase of IECMS was launched on May 1, 2022 and covered the Constitutional Court, Supreme Court, and the Commercial Court Division of the High Court.
On February 1, 2023, the second phase of IECMS was launched in the Labour Court and the Administrative Court.
The third phase completed the automation of the country’s superior courts. The third phase, launched on September 1, 2023, focused on connecting the magistrates’ courts.
Following the rollout in Matabeleland North and Mashonaland Central, the JSC aims to extend Phase Four to additional provinces by mid-2025, ultimately achieving a fully digitised magistrates’ court system nationwide.
The IECMS continues to redefine Zimbabwe’s justice sector, bridging gaps between institutions and citizens.
