LocationsMozambique advances people-centred justice through digital innovation with UNDP support
July 2, 2026
Maputo, Mozambique — Strengthening justice through digital innovation is becoming a cornerstone of Mozambique's public sector reform agenda. One important milestone in this journey came on 29 May, when the Government of Mozambique, with support from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), launched the Multi-Purpose Justice Administration System for Preventive Detention Deadline Alerts. The platform represents a major step towards building a more efficient, transparent and people-centred justice system.
Developed under the leadership of the Ministry of Justice, Constitutional and Religious Affairs, the digital platform enables courts, public prosecutors and the National Penitentiary Service (SERNAP) to monitor preventive detention deadlines in real time through automated alerts. By replacing fragmented manual processes with an integrated electronic system, the platform helps prevent unlawful detention, strengthens compliance with legal procedures and reinforces the protection of fundamental human rights.
Strengthening justice through innovation
The initiative reflects Mozambique's commitment to modernizing public institutions through digital transformation while strengthening the rule of law and improving access to justice for all. "The management of preventive detention deadlines is not simply an administrative function—it is fundamental to protecting due process, safeguarding human dignity and ensuring public confidence in the justice system," said Edo Stork, UNDP Resident Representative in Mozambique, during the launch ceremony. "Globally, UNDP supports countries in adopting digital solutions that strengthen governance and make institutions more efficient, inclusive and resilient. In Mozambique, this initiative demonstrates the country's growing commitment to modernizing public administration and improving service delivery for its citizens."
For many years, managing preventive detention deadlines depended largely on physical files and manual coordination between justice institutions. These fragmented processes increased the risk of delays, communication gaps and procedural errors that could result in individuals remaining in detention beyond legally established timeframes. The new platform introduces a secure and interoperable digital architecture that connects courts, public prosecutors and SERNAP through a single information system with differentiated access levels. Automatic notifications are generated whenever detention deadlines approach, allowing justice officials to take timely action while strengthening institutional coordination and accountability.
Beyond improving operational efficiency, the platform provides centralized statistical information that supports evidence-based decision-making and more effective management across the justice sector.
Minister of Justice, Constitutional and Religious Affairs speaking to the audience during the launching ceremony
Speaking at the launch, Minister of Justice, Constitutional and Religious Affairs Mateus Saize described the initiative as an important milestone in the modernization of Mozambique's justice sector and the consolidation of the rule of law.
He noted that technology is now being placed at the service of legality, transparency and the protection of fundamental rights, providing justice institutions with modern tools that enable preventive action, improve institutional coordination and support faster, more informed decision-making. The Minister also acknowledged UNDP's longstanding contribution to institutional strengthening, emphasizing that the partnership extends well beyond financing. Through technical assistance, innovation and capacity development, UNDP has supported reforms that contribute to building a modern, efficient and citizen-centred justice system.
The launch of the platform reflects UNDP's broader support to governance reform in Mozambique, where strengthening institutions, advancing digital transformation and expanding access to justice remain central to promoting sustainable development. As highlighted in UNDP's forthcoming Country Programme (2027–2030), strengthening effective, accountable and inclusive institutions is fundamental to reinforcing the social contract between citizens and the State. Through integrated policy advice, institutional capacity development and digital innovation, UNDP works alongside national partners to improve public service delivery, protect human rights and increase trust in public institutions.
Across the justice sector, UNDP supports digitalization, data systems and institutional strengthening that improve the accessibility, efficiency and responsiveness of justice services, particularly for women and vulnerable populations. These efforts form part of a broader governance portfolio that promotes transparency, accountability and citizen-centred public administration while accelerating Mozambique's digital transformation. The platform will initially be piloted in the provinces of Maputo, Nampula, Niassa and Cabo Delgado, before being progressively expanded nationwide.
For SERNAP, the system enhances prison population management and operational oversight. For prosecutors and courts, it provides modern tools that facilitate preventive action, reduce procedural delays and support faster, evidence-informed decisions. Ultimately, the platform represents more than a technological innovation. It is an investment in institutions that serve people more effectively—helping ensure that no individual is deprived of liberty beyond what the law permits, while strengthening transparency, accountability and respect for human dignity.
As Mozambique continues to modernize its public institutions, the partnership between the Government and UNDP demonstrates how digital innovation can translate into stronger governance, better public services and greater protection of citizens' rights. By placing technology in the service of justice, the initiative contributes directly to Sustainable Development Goal 16—promoting peaceful and inclusive societies, providing access to justice for all and building effective, accountable and inclusive institutions at all levels.