NAIROBI: The Judiciary is deploying information and communication technology (ICT) to enhance service delivery and alleviate congestion at the Makadara Law Courts in Nairobi. Chief Justice Martha Koome emphasized the commitment to streamlining court processes, including the payment of fines and bonds, to expedite judicial procedures.
According to Kenya News Agency, Chief Justice Koome, during a visit to the Makadara Law Courts, highlighted ongoing collaborations with ICT experts to improve system efficiency. These improvements aim to facilitate quicker processing of fines and bonds, contributing to the decongestion of the courts. Plans are also in progress to establish an ICT office at the Makadara Law Courts to promptly address system challenges and ensure seamless payment verifications.
In efforts to further reduce congestion, the Judiciary is exploring options to transfer some cases from Makadara to other courts in the region. Additionally, there is a consideration to decriminalize certain traffic charge
s, allowing offenders to be fined and released, thus reducing the burden on cells and prisons.
Chief Justice Koome noted the Judiciary’s achievements in the fiscal year 2023/24, with Magistrates Courts recording a case clearance rate of 98%. She acknowledged the need to address space and infrastructure challenges at Makadara to improve service quality and efficiency. The Judiciary also intends to work with other justice stakeholders through court users’ committees to tackle inefficiencies in criminal case handling, focusing on timely plea taking and bail and bond procedures.