Online Reporter
Rutendo Nyeve
Online Reporter
MATABELELAND North and Mashonaland Central provinces are set to be the pioneers of the Integrated Electronic Case Management System (IECMS) fourth phase rollout which is targeting the digitalisation of the lower courts.
As part of rolling out the initiative, the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) is training key stakeholders in Hwange who include the Zimbabwe Republic Police, Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services, National Prosecuting Authority and the JSC staff who will collaborate to ensure seamless integration of the fourth phase.
In an interview, the JSC Secretary, Mr Walter Chikwana, in Victoria Falls on Friday, revealed that the 4th phase marks a significant expansion of the digital platform aimed at transforming Zimbabwe’s justice delivery system through automation and enhanced accessibility.
“We are here in Victoria Falls, which is one of the stations in Matabeleland North, which will pioneer the fourth phase of the IECM to raise awareness and train key stakeholders, such as the Zimbabwe Republic Police, 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’
“The system will also promote transparency through public access to real-time updates, fostering trust in judicial processes,” said Mr Chikwana.
The first phase of IECMS was launched on 1 May 2022 and it covered the Constitutional Court, Supreme Court, and the Commercial Court Division of the High Court.
On 1 February 2023, IECMS second phase 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, which was launched on 1 September 2023 focused on connecting the magistrates’ courts.
Following Matabeleland North and Mashonaland Central’s rollout, the JSC aims to extend Phase 4 to additional provinces by mid-2025, ultimately achieving a fully digitalised magistrates’ court system nationwide.
