Keywords: Justice, Digitalization
The use of Electronic Filing System (EFS) was introduced in 2011 by the Rwandan Judiciary to enhance the access to justice. This technology helps court users to file their cases online instead of traveling miles to physically file cases. It also allows the plaintiff to follow up case registration status.
As part of the Integrated Electronic Case Management System it allows for the tracking of the case and removes duplication.The EFS has eased the work for registrars who register the cases and has enhanced the access to justice by bringing the court services closer to users. The cost of travelling to courts has been cut down and user can approach the nearest Internet café to lodge his/her case, in case he has no personal internet. EFS was being rolled out in courts countrywide.
The technology can be emulated in other branches of government where it can be used to receive correspondences between institutions and institutions with citizens. It can be used by other countries in Africa to ease access to justice.