Judiciary adopts video conferencing in criminal proceedings

DODOMA: THE Tanzania Judiciary has adopted a video conferencing technology in criminal proceedings, an initiative that is expected to significantly improve the efficiency of court proceedings.

The new system approach will expedite trials and reduce congestion in correctional facilities.

To start with, the Judiciary has donated 10 special video conferencing containers to various prisons across the country.

The lucky recipients included Ukonga, Segerea and Keko prisons (Dar es Salaam), along with others in Tabora, Moshi, Mbeya, Tanga, Mwanza, Arusha and Dodoma.

The high-tech technology containers will allow virtual court hearings, sparing inmates and suspects from expenses of prison to court transfers.

Minister for Home Affairs, Mr Innocent Bashungwa commended the Judiciary’s tech-savvy approach on Friday, noting that the digital leap will reduce transportation costs, minimise case delays and help keep courtrooms unclogged.

He said: “I am confident that these digital kits will be used for their intended purpose and enhance efficiency in justice delivery. The government remains committed to working closely with the Judiciary to ensure timely and fair justice for all Tanzanians.”

This also means lawyers can access rulings at the click of a button.

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The news on the adoption of the new technology in criminal proceedings might not be well received by any shady legal practitioners who have been gaming the system.

Elaborating, Chief Court Administrator Prof Elisante Ole Gabriel championed the initiative, highlighting that with the new system, a judge in Mwanza can now hear a case involving an inmate in Dodoma without breaking a sweat or booking a flight.

Meanwhile, Prisons Commissioner General Jeremiah Katungu revealed that Tanzania’s Prison Service is already embracing the digital age, with 66 prisons using the e-Court system. Plans are underway to build even more digital courtrooms, backed by a 1.3bn/- budget.

Likewise, with the help of the Ministry of Information and Communication Technology, 96 prison facilities are getting connected to the National ICT Backbone because justice, like the internet, should be fast and accessible.

He said: “we extend our gratitude to the Ministry of Information, Communication and Technology as well as TTCL for their support in making the e-court system a reality.”

With video conferencing, cybersecurity tools and government internet services on the way, Tanzania’s justice system is getting a serious tech upgrade.