DoJ&CD Unveils Digital Transformation Plan to Modernize Criminal Justice System (2025–2030)

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.

Supporting these digital initiatives is a focus on modernizing ICT infrastructure and ensuring robust cybersecurity. Network upgrades, including Software-Defined Wide Area Networks (SD-WAN), will improve reliability and performance for Local and Wide Area Networks (LAN/WAN). Regular cybersecurity vulnerability assessments will safeguard operational sites against cyberattacks, while investments in alternative energy solutions will mitigate disruptions caused by power outages, ensuring courts and recording systems remain functional.

Through these technological and digital initiatives, the DoJ&CD aims to build a modern, efficient, and resilient justice system, reduce case backlogs, and enhance access to justice across South Africa over the next five years.