The Judiciary’s ICT and Documentation Committee convened for its third meeting at the Supreme Court with the primary focus to formulate a comprehensive (5) five-year strategy that will revolutionize the Ugandan Judiciary’s ICT and Documentation landscape.
Honourable Justice Christopher Izama Madram, Justice of the Supreme Court and Chairperson of the Judiciary’s ICT and Documentation Committee while emphasizing the importance of this strategic framework, which would guide the Judiciary’s ICT initiatives over the next five (5) years said, “The formulation of the strategy is not just a plan; it will be the blueprint for how they will leverage technology to enhance the delivery of justice and improve operational efficiency within the Judiciary.”
A key highlight of the meeting was the presentation from Mr. Steven Kirenga from Centenary Technology Services, who unveiled the Inception Report for the Review of the Judiciary ICT Policy 2008 and the development of a new Judiciary ICT Policy 2025.
He underscored that the revised policy is designed to elevate the management, delivery, and advancement of ICT-driven services and infrastructure within the Judiciary. “The new policy will position ICT as a critical enabler of the Judiciary’s business processes, ensuring efficiency and improved service delivery for all stakeholders,” explained Kirenga.
Adding to the discussion, Emmanuel Mugabi from Centenary Technology Services highlighted the critical importance of cybersecurity within the Judiciary’s evolving ICT framework.
“As we embark on this transformative journey, cybersecurity and best practices must be at the forefront of our strategy,” said Mugabi. “Protecting sensitive judicial data and ensuring the integrity of our ICT systems will be paramount. Our approach will incorporate the latest in cybersecurity measures, aligning with global standards to safeguard the Judiciary’s digital infrastructure.”
See also: OP-ED: technology as an abettor in legal justice transformation
Mr. David Kikabi, Head of ICT for the Judiciary while providing insights into the strategic direction for the next five financial years (FY2025/26-FY2029/30) —outlined a consolidated programmatic approach that will be at the core of the new ICT and Documentation Strategy, aimed at achieving transformative results.
The strategy’s key objectives include developing and rolling out the Judiciary Management Information System (JMIS), secure expansion & integration of ICT infrastructure, and the extensive use of business intelligence through data analytics. In addition to these, the strategy will focus on ensuring efficient and effective digital access to research materials and enhancing research and innovation in ICT products, applications, and services.
Kikabi emphasized the importance of regular monitoring, noting that the progress of the strategy’s implementation will be assessed quarterly and annually.
The finalization and validation of the five-year strategic objectives, programs, and activities are scheduled for March 2025. The Hon. Chief Justice Alfonse Chigamoy Owiny-Dollo is expected to sign off and officially launch the Judiciary’s ICT and Documentation Strategy for FY2024/25-FY2029/30 by May 2025.
This strategic initiative marks a significant milestone in the Judiciary’s ongoing efforts to harness technology in delivering justice more efficiently and effectively, setting a strong foundation for future ICT developments
