The Judiciary has officially opened the 2026 Legal Year, reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding the rule of law, strengthening governance and underpinning economic stability as it embarks on a new four-year strategic cycle aligned with the National Development Strategy 2 (NDS2).
Chief Justice Luke Malaba presided over the national ceremony in Harare yesterday, attended by senior judicial officers and key stakeholders from across the justice delivery system.
In his address, Chief Justice Malaba reviewed the achievements made under the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) Strategic Plan 2021–2025, which was aligned with NDS1. He highlighted that the period had been marked by major institutional reforms aimed at improving efficiency, expanding access to justice and enhancing service delivery.
“The occasion enables the Judiciary to communicate with the nation, articulate its vision for the administration of justice, and interact with stakeholders for the first time in the new Legal Year. The year 2025 was marked by significant transformative developments, including the continued decentralisation of the courts, expanded implementation of the Integrated Electronic Case Management System (IECMS), investment in staff welfare and training, and the strengthening of institutional frameworks that support the work of the courts,” he said.
Chief Justice Malaba added that key milestones such as court decentralisation and digital transformation had largely been achieved, laying a strong foundation for the next strategic phase.
The JSC’s new Strategic Plan for 2026–2030 emphasises strengthening governance, protecting investments, enhancing accountability, and integrating new technologies such as Artificial Intelligence.
“The principal question the Judiciary must consistently pose is how judicial service is to be organised and managed so that it meets these standards in practice. Objectivity, measurability, and lawful accountability are indispensable,” he said.
He stressed that performance management and technology are essential tools but must be applied within strict governance frameworks and constitutional safeguards to protect judicial independence and public trust.
Stakeholders across the justice sector have praised the reform agenda, noting that a credible and efficient justice system is crucial for economic confidence, social stability, and equitable access to justice.
Zimbabwe Human Rights Commission Chairperson Commissioner Jessie Majome highlighted the Judiciary’s renewed commitment to accessibility.
“The major takeaways are how he emphasised access to justice and the rule of law. Improved infrastructure and access to technology will be key,” she said.
Advocate Method Ndlovu noted that the ongoing rollout of the IECMS is set to expand access to justice nationwide.
“The ethical functions of the sector were emphasised. Justice must be delivered without bias,” he said.
Advocate Joshua John Chirambwe added that the reforms clearly reinforce the need for the justice sector to operate strictly within constitutional confines for the benefit of the people.
As the 2026 Legal Year gets underway, the focus now shifts to implementation and measurable outcomes under the four-year strategy. The Judiciary aims to ensure that all Zimbabweans can access judicial services efficiently, transparently and consistently anchored on the broader goals of the National Development Strategy 2.
