The Judiciary has launched a Video Conferencing System at Mbale High Court to enable remote witness testimonies, hearings of cases, and reduce the need for physical transfer of detainees to court.
The Deputy Chief Justice, HW Richard Buteera, while presiding over the launch on November 1, 2024, said that the introduction of the video conferencing system will transform the justice system by embedding digital solutions that enhance accessibility and efficiency in legal proceedings.
“By adopting digital tools, the justice system will improve the administration process, facilitate better collaboration among legal authorities, and provide higher-quality services to the public,“ Buteera said.
Additionally, Buteera highlighted that digital integration will help enhance system efficiency and accountability, ensuring fair and consistent service delivery.
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He highlighted the importance of technology in addressing delays and improving service delivery within the judiciary.
Buteera further revealed that the system is expected to improve security during court proceedings by minimizing the risks associated with transporting detainees.
The launch has been witnessed by Justice Christopher Madrama Izama (Justice Supreme Court and Chairperson of the Judiciary ICT & Documentation Committee), Nwanne Vwede-Obahor, UNDP Resident Representative for Uganda, HW James Ereemye Jumire Mawanda (Registrar, Communications and Public Relations), HW Zulaika Nanteza (Ag Registrar Alternative Dispute Resolution Registry), Annet Mpabulungi Wakabi (Governance and Peace Team Leader UNDP), and David Kikabi (Principal Information Technology Officer, Judiciary).
The video conferencing system is being rolled out in multiple high courts and prisons across Uganda, including Masaka, Mubende, Jinja, Gulu, and now Mbale. This expansion aims to tackle existing case backlogs and streamline judicial processes nationwide.
The launch of a video conferencing system at Mbale High Court marks a significant advancement in Uganda’s judicial processes, aligning with global trends towards digital transformation in governance and law.