Parliamentary budget committee applauds Judiciary’s ICT reforms

DODOMA: THE Parliamentary Budget Committee has expressed satisfaction with the ongoing reforms within Tanzania’s Judiciary, particularly commending the significant strides made in the adop- tion of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) systems to enhance judicial operations. Speaking in Dodoma on Friday, during a seminar organised to familiarise committee members with the Judiciary’s transformation agenda, Committee …

DODOMA: THE Parliamentary Budget Committee has expressed satisfaction with the ongoing reforms within Tanzania’s Judiciary, particularly commending the significant strides made in the adop- tion of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) systems to enhance judicial operations.

Speaking in Dodoma on Friday, during a seminar organised to familiarise committee members with the Judiciary’s transformation agenda, Committee Vice-Chairperson Mr Twaha Mpembenwe stressed the Judiciary’s role in promoting timely access to justice—an essential pillar of national economic development.

“The committee recognises that efficient case resolution and improved access to justice not only save time but also boost productivity and public trust in legal institutions,” said Mr Mpembenwe.

He applauded the Judiciary for translating President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s vision into practical, transformative actions.

“Much has been done in realising the president’s vision. The Judiciary has responded with seriousness. Look at this building– Africa’s largest Judiciary headquarters and the sixth-largest globally. That is no small achievement,” he noted.

Mr Mpembenwe further stressed that judicial efficiency and independence are not only legal imperatives but also eco- nomic enablers, enhancing investor confidence and the rule of law.

“Many people see the Judiciary only as a dispute-resolution institution. But we see it as an economic catalyst promoting justice, building confidence and supporting national growth,” he said.

He praised the leadership of the Chief Justice and the Chief Court Administrator for overseeing extensive construction of court infrastructure across regions and districts.

He noted that the Dodoma Judiciary Headquarters, equipped with modern ICT systems, could also serve as a unique tourism and educational destination.

“This facility is a national asset. Visitors com- ing to learn about our judicial system will generate economic opportunities, accommodation, meals, transport and more,” Mr Mpembenwe added.

He urged the Judiciary to maintain robust data protection mechanisms, given the sensitivity of legal information handled within digital systems.

“What we are witnessing today may seem like a miracle, but it is the result of President Samia’s vision and leadership. Kudos to our President,” he stressed.

Earlier, Chief Court Administrator Profes-sor Elisante Ole Gabriel outlined major achievements in ICT infrastructure, thanking the Budget Committee and the government for their ongoing collaboration.

Prof Ole Gabriel highlighted key digital platforms introduced by the Judiciary, including: Judiciary Electronic Case Management System (JoT e-CMS), Transcription and Translation System (TTS), Data Hub and Tanzanian Legal Information Institute (TanzLII).

He said that court case backlog has been reduced from 10 per cent in 2020 to 4 per cent in 2025 and citizen trust in the Judiciary has increased to 88 per cent, according to a survey by REPOA.

Prof Ole Gabriel announced several innovations aimed at reaching underserved populations.

These include: Floating and flying courts (on boats and helicopters), court coaches aboard the upcoming Standard Gauge Railway (SGR), with proposals already approved.

He also emphasised ongoing efforts to enhance staff training, court inspections and inter-agency collaboration within the criminal justice system.

“We are committed to further improving our ICT systems, strengthening infrastructure and building the human capacity necessary to deliver justice efficiently and equitably,” he said.

Committee members also toured key facilities at the Judiciary Headquarters, including: ICT control room, call centre, child-friendly space, lactation room and court au- ditorium.

 

Speaking during the tour, Director of the Judiciary’s ICT Centre, Mr Enock Kalege, revealed that Judiciary systems currently interface with 16 national institutions, enabling real-time tracking of all registered and adjudicated cases from the Court of Appeal to District Courts.