UNDP partners with the Malawi Judiciary to launch ICT Policy and Digital Laboratory to Advance Access to Justice

November 4, 2025

Rt. Hon. Chief Justice Rizine Mzikamanda (left) holds a copy of the ICT Policy pamphlet as UNDP Resident Representative Ms. Fenella Frost applauds during the launch of the policy.

The Malawi Judiciary took a decisive leap toward a more digital and accessible justice system on Monday, 3 November 2025, unveiling its first ICT Policy and ICT Laboratory at its Headquarters in Blantyre. Working in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the initiative marks a turning point in efforts to modernize justice delivery, enhance access to justice, and strengthen the rule of law. The launch brought together Chief Justice Rizine Mzikamanda, senior judges, magistrates, registrars, and partners from across the justice sector.

Man in a suit at a UN podium, blue UN banner in the background, patterned tablecloth. — Rt. Hon. Chief Justice Rizine Mzikamanda delivers his remarks during the launch event.

A Milestone in Digital Justice

Speaking during the launch, UNDP Resident Representative Fenella Frost congratulated the Judiciary on its progress and reaffirmed UNDP’s commitment to supporting Malawi’s justice sector.

“The launch of the ICT Policy and Laboratory signals the Judiciary’s continued commitment to harnessing technology to improve access to justice and uphold the rule of law,” she said. “Digital transformation is not just about technology—it’s about people. It’s about ensuring that every Malawian, regardless of who they are or where they live, can access justice that is fair, timely, and dignified.”

Chief Justice Rizine Mzikamanda described the launch as a defining step toward a modern justice system.

“Through these two critical streams that converge today, we signal the dawn of a new era that goes beyond balancing the scales of justice through the weight of laws and evidence and promotes speed, efficiency, transparency and accountability by the use of technology. We want to minimize and manage backlog and delay as we seek to raise public trust and confidence in the administration of justice.”

The ICT Policy provides a framework for digital transformation within the Judiciary, focusing on governance, infrastructure, security, and capacity building. It aims to promote efficiency, enhance transparency, and strengthen institutional resilience.

Woman in a white blazer with a floral top stands beside a UNDP banner. — UNDP Resident Representative Ms. Fenella Frost delivers her remarks at the launch event.

The ICT Laboratory: Building Skills and Innovation

The newly established ICT Laboratory will serve as a hub for training, research, and innovation. Judges, magistrates, and court staff will use the facility to build digital literacy, conduct legal research, and explore ways to integrate technology into court operations. The lab is one of the key outcomes of recommendations from the 2024 e-Justice National Conference, where the Judiciary committed to modernizing court processes and strengthening digital infrastructure.

Expanding Access through Digital Solutions

UNDP’s partnership with the Judiciary has already delivered tangible results. In 2024, UNDP worked with the Judiciary, the Malawi Police Service, the Malawi Prisons Service, and Airtel Malawi to introduce 20 pilot sites for virtual court hearings, linking courts to prisons and police stations. This initiative has streamlined bail applications, reduced detention times, and cut administrative costs—saving Malawians an estimated MWK 375 million in travel-related expenses over 15 months. Technology is also helping survivors of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) testify remotely under Section 71A of the Criminal Procedure and Evidence Code, ensuring dignity and safety while accessing justice.

Photograph of a computer lab with rows of orange desks and desktop PCs. — Newly launched ICT Laboratory at the Malawi Judiciary headquarters in Blantyre.

A Shared Vision for Inclusive Justice

The Judiciary ICT Policy and Laboratory align with UNDP’s Digital Strategy and Sustainable Development Goal 16 on peace, justice, and strong institutions. This partnership demonstrate Malawi’s growing commitment to building a justice system that is transparent, inclusive, and people-centred. “We commend the Judiciary for embracing innovation in justice delivery,” Frost added. “UNDP is proud to walk this journey with you—building a digital justice system that leaves no one behind.”