The Uganda Judiciary has launched a Video Conferencing System at Kitgum High Court, to extend judicial services to Kitgum Main Prison and Lamwo Main Prison, in a major step towards strengthening access to justice through digital innovation.
According to Philip Mwaka, the Resident Judge of Kitgum High Court, the launch rolled out with a live virtual session to demonstrate how court proceedings can now be conducted remotely, particularly benefiting inmates and parties unable to physically attend court.
While speaking at the launch on Thursday, May 7th, 2026, at Kitgum High Court, Justice Jane Frances Abodo, the principal Judge said that ICT had transformed service delivery globally by improving efficiency, accessibility, and effectiveness across sectors, including justice systems.
Principal Judge emphasised that access to justice is a fundamental human right and observed that delays in court processes continue to undermine public confidence while negatively affecting individuals, families, and socio-economic development.
“The Judiciary is currently grappling with a significant case backlog, with more than 200,000 pending cases as of March 2026. The Judiciary is therefore implementing reforms such as Alternative Dispute Resolution mechanisms, increased use of ICT in court processes, and expansion of court infrastructure to improve efficiency,” Abodo said.
Mwaka acknowledged the continued support of the United Nations Development Programme and development partners in strengthening digital justice systems through automation of court processes, capacity building, and roll-out of video conferencing systems across several High Courts and prisons.
“The video conferencing is already improving justice delivery by reducing transport and operational costs, enhancing security, enabling remote participation, and expediting case disposal, especially for vulnerable groups and persons in custody,” Mwaka said.
He further observed that courts are gradually evolving from physical spaces into service-based institutions through digital transformation, aligning the Judiciary with global technological advancements while ensuring justice remains accessible to all.
Justice Christopher Izama Madrama, the Chairperson of the Judiciary ICT and Documentation Committee revealed that the Judiciary is steadily building a justice system that is robust, efficient, transparent, and fit for the demands of the 21st century, adding that the innovation marks a departure from traditional limitations associated with physical court appearances and enables courts to function more efficiently while safeguarding fairness and due process.
The Deputy Registrar of Kitgum High Court, Susanne Aisia Musooli, welcomed the innovation, saying it has brought justice closer to the people because witnesses can now testify remotely from wherever they are and showcased the Court’s commitment to fully utilising the System to improve service delivery.
The launch of the video conferencing system is a part of the Judiciary’s innovation plans intending to ensure ease in delivering Justice to Ugandans.
