The digital transformation of judicial systems in Africa holds significant importance for the continent's development. Digital systems reduce the need for physical paperwork, court visits, and administrative tasks, leading to considerable cost savings for the judiciary and litigants. This is particularly beneficial in resource-constrained environments.
Starting August 12, 2024, all urgent applications in the South African Labour Court will be submitted through the Court Online System. Acting Judge President of the Labour Court, Edwin Mogomotsi Molahlehi, announced in a directive signed July 31 that the Office of the Chief Justice has established this e-filing solution for the country's superior courts.
The system allows law firms and litigants to file petitions and documents online and manage court schedules and evidence in real time. Judge Molahlehi clarified that "all urgent applications in the Labour Court will be initiated on Court Online from the specified date. Unless otherwise directed, existing cases cannot be initiated on Court Online." The Court Online System is a comprehensive platform for South Africa's High Courts that facilitates E-Filing, Digital Case Management, and Evidence Management. It enables the electronic sharing and filing of documents, streamlines the inspection of documents, and provides fast, accurate, real-time updates on case statuses.
The South African government has been investing in ICT infrastructure, with digital government services becoming a key focus. For example, the South African National Development Plan envisions increased access to electronic services by 2030.
In the 2023 Network Readiness Index (NRI), which assesses the application and impact of information and communication technology (ICT) across global economies, South Africa is ranked 74th out of 134 countries. The country holds the 2nd position in Africa. South Africa demonstrated strong performance across four key pillars: Technology (including Access, Content, and Future Technologies), People (encompassing Individuals, Businesses, and Governments), Governance (covering Trust, Regulation, and Inclusion), and Impact (focusing on Economy, Quality of Life, and Sustainable Development Goals contribution).
Hikmatu Bilali
