This is according to Justice and Correctional Services Minister, Ronald Lamola. 

In a written response to the North West's Freedom Front Plus, Lamola confirms his department needs to start maximizing technology and rolling out ICT programmes.  

He says out of 750 courts, only 47 which are linked to 18 correctional facilities across the country, have access to audio-visual links solutions. 

He says in some courts cases are heard through this link, and they are in the process of rolling it out to various courts, including those in the North West. 

He says his department is also in the process of developing a remote audio court interpretation solution that would enable court interpretation services to be provided remotely. 

Lamola adds "the Rules Board is working on including e-justice rules into the current uniform rules for the High Courts and Magistrate Courts rules to facilitate electronic filing and services". 

Lamola, however, points out that the use of technology in remote rural areas is a major challenge, which calls for increased connectivity and infrastructure. 

He says his department is in talks with SITA to address these challenges.

OFM News