Rwanda has taken a significant step forward in the digital transformation of its judiciary sector with the launch of the Judicial Management Performance System (JPMS). This new digital tool aims to monitor and improve the performance of court staff, ultimately enhancing the delivery of justice in the country.
Chief Justice Faustin Ntazilyayo emphasized the importance of this technological advancement for the judiciary sector. The JPMS will enable the monitoring and evaluation of activities carried out by court staff at various levels, including the judicial level, the court level, and even at the individual employee level. The system is designed to complement the existing Integrated Electronic Case Management System (IECMS), which has already had a significant impact on the sector’s ability to deliver justice to Rwandans.
While some workers have expressed concerns about the performance of the new system, Ntazilyayo is confident that as they become more familiar with its usage, they will better understand its benefits and appreciate how it improves and streamlines their tasks.
Marie Alice Uwamahoro, a Business Analyst at the Supreme Court, explained that the JPMS will enable more frequent self-evaluations aligned with the institution’s objectives. The system eliminates the possibility of overlooking certain aspects that may occur when using traditional paper-based evaluations, ensuring the timely completion of intended tasks.
Lawyer Sylvie Umwali expressed optimism about the benefits of the JPMS for individuals in need of court services. The system will provide transparency by clearly indicating the time a case reaches judges’ offices and when registrars place it for trial, reducing the potential for delays.
The JPMS system is expected to facilitate the tracking of the Strategic Plan and Action Plan implementation, monitor performance and work progress against targets, track Budget Allocation and Execution, and aid in evaluating Staff Performance based on assigned milestones or tasks. It will boost the performance of all staff members and provide accurate performance assessments based on system data.
The JPMS consists of two modules. One module will be utilized by judges and court registrars, allowing them to continue working within the Integrated Electronic Case Management System (IECMS) while transmitting their work directly to JPMS. The other module will be used exclusively by other staff members operating within the system.
The launch of the JPMS marks a significant milestone in Rwanda’s ongoing efforts to enhance the delivery of justice and improve the performance of its judiciary sector. This digital tool will undoubtedly contribute to more efficient and effective court processes, ensuring fair and timely justice for all Rwandans. The system’s ability to monitor and evaluate the performance of court staff at various levels will lead to increased accountability and a higher standard of service in the judiciary sector.
