FEATURED: New study shows how Rwanda, Kenya leverage technology for Justice delivery

Rwanda and Kenya are leveraging Information and Communication Technology (ICT) to revolutionize justice service delivery, achieving significant benefits such as reduced court filing costs and enhanced efficiency. However, a newly released report highlights areas requiring improvement, including addressing digital illiteracy to ensure greater inclusivity. The report, titled “A Comparative Study on Digitization of Justice following COVID-19 in Kenya and Rwanda,” was launched on December 5 in Kigali by Rwanda’s Legal Aid Forum (LAF) in collaboration with Kenya's Kituo Cha Sheria. It underscores the transformative role of digital tools in enhancing accessibility, efficiency, and justice delivery while tackling challenges faced by vulnerable populations. ALSO READ: New digital tool to evaluate performance of judiciary launched The study focused on the post-pandemic period, analyzing how Kenya and Rwanda used digital tools to navigate restrictions that had initially hindered justice service delivery. The findings reveal how these innovations have transformed court operations while highlighting gaps that persist in fully digitizing the justice system. The launch event in Kigali attracted diverse stakeholders, including representatives from government institutions, civil society organizations, lawyers, and development partners. Speaking at the event, Me Andrews Kananga, Executive Director of LAF, emphasized the broader significance of the study: He said; “This launch is more than sharing findings; it’s an invitation to dialogue, collaboration, and collective action. By exchanging insights, strategies, and experiences, we reinforce our shared mission to build inclusive, responsive, and resilient justice systems. Let us remain committed to ensuring that technological advancements empower, promote equity, and deliver justice for all.” Rwanda has positioned itself as a regional leader in justice sector digitization, thanks to its Integrated Electronic Case Management System (IECMS), implemented in 2016. The platform streamlines e-filing, case tracking, and virtual hearings, with over 85% of court filings now processed digitally. Stella Murungi, Chief Digital Officer for the Justice Sector at the Ministry of Justice, lauded the system for its ability to deliver timely, accessible, and high-quality justice services. She said; “You can file your case online, track your case number, and handle everything digitally, wherever you are,” she said, adding that the government is addressing digital literacy gaps through initiatives like the Digital Ambassadors Programme. While Rwanda has made significant progress, challenges such as limited digital skills and internet access in rural areas hinder broader adoption. Many citizens still rely on cybercafés or legal aid providers for assistance, raising concerns about data privacy. Kenya has also made strides in digital justice, utilizing tools like mobile payment systems (MPESA), e-filing, and toll-free legal helplines. Justice Patrick Otieno highlighted that Kenya’s Court of Appeal operates entirely virtually, with electronic payments fully integrated into judiciary processes. “Our services are about 60% online, and virtual court attendances account for 55-60%,” Otieno noted. Despite these advancements, fragmented digital platforms and infrastructure limitations impede broader adoption in Kenya. The report recommends public awareness campaigns and digital skills training to bridge the gap, especially in rural areas where uneven infrastructure development exacerbates access challenges. Recommendations The study provided key recommendations to enhance justice service digitization in both countries, including, expanding affordable internet access in remote areas and introducing public Wi-Fi initiatives; providing ICT training for legal providers, grassroots actors, and the public; strengthening laws to secure data and promote awareness of digital rights; equipping police stations and prisons with digital infrastructure to streamline operations, and mitigating risks of cyberattacks and data breaches to protect sensitive information.

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FEATURED: New study shows how Rwanda, Kenya leverage technology for Justice delivery