In its revised 2025-2030 Strategic Plan, the South African Department of Justice and Constitutional Development DoJ CD has placed significant emphasis on digital transformation to modernize the criminal justice system CJS and tackle persistent case backlogs. The plan outlines a comprehensive approach that integrates technology across multiple facets of justice delivery, aiming to enhance efficiency, accessibility, and service quality for all South Africans.
A key component of the plan is the Integrated Justice System IJS programme, designed to improve the criminal justice process through multi-departmental electronic coordination. Central to this effort is the creation of a transversal hub, which will connect departments and entities such as the South African Police Service SAPS and the National Prosecuting Authority NPA, enabling seamless electronic exchange of information. The Department also plans to deploy an Integrated Person Management IPM system across SAPS stations to improve tracking and management of individuals within the justice system. In addition, modern case management systems will be integrated to manage cases, schedule court hearings, and store documents digitally, reducing human error and accelerating case processing. The introduction of a new Criminal Procedure Bill will update legislation from 1977, aligning investigative processes with modern technological capabilities and enhancing digital forensic tools.
To address case backlogs, the Department is expanding its digital services to reduce delays and limit the need for physical court appearances. A major target is to achieve 100 virtual court proceedings across all courts by the end of the five-year cycle. The number of justice services accessible online is set to increase from five to sixteen, providing greater convenience for citizens. The Master's Office will benefit from enhanced digital infrastructure to streamline online submissions and application tracking for deceased estates and trusts. Additionally, the Department plans to implement advanced court recording technology CRT, including in-house transcription and audio-visual solutions CRAVS, to prevent case postponements caused by faulty recording systems.
