Harare, (New Ziana) – The country’s justice system entered a new era on Wednesday with the official launch of the digitalization of all 16 magistrates’ courts in Masvingo and Matabeleland South provinces, a milestone that will significantly improve access to justice.
The initiative, unveiled by the, is part of Phase 4:2 of the Integrated Electronic Case Management System (IECMS), a platform designed to enhance efficiency, transparency, and accountability in the courts.
Under the system, magistrates’ courts in ten Masvingo stations and six in Matabeleland South will now operate electronically, enabling processes such as e-filing, e-payments, online case tracking, and virtual hearings.
This digital transition is expected to cut costs, reduce delays, and curb corruption by eliminating unnecessary paperwork and ensuring transparent handling of cases.
“The IECMS represents a pivotal step towards modernizing our courts and ensuring justice is not only delivered but delivered efficiently,” the JSC said in a statement. “Court users will now receive timely updates on the progress of their cases via email or text, while lawyers will undergo mandatory verification through the Law Society of Zimbabwe to prevent bogus legal representation.”
By going paperless, the system is projected to save significant costs previously spent on printing, photocopying, and travel, as many proceedings will be conducted virtually. Secure record management and data analytics will also provide policymakers with crucial insights to improve the justice delivery system.
The JSC commended key stakeholders, including the National Prosecuting Authority, Police, the Law Society of Zimbabwe, the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission, the Zimbabwe Prison and Correctional Service, and the Ministry of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs, for their collaboration in the rollout.
This latest phase builds on the successful digitization of magistrates’ courts in Mashonaland Central and Matabeleland North, completed on 1 July 2025 under Phase 4:1. The programme will now move to Mashonaland East and Manicaland under Phase 4:3, as Zimbabwe works towards a fully digitalized justice system.
“With the launch, we reaffirm our commitment to building a transparent, efficient, and accessible judiciary that serves every Zimbabwean,” the JSC said.
New Ziana
