Collaborative Effort to Enhance Access to Justice for Inmates
Lusaka, 20th February 2025 — In a historic move aimed at addressing the pressing issue of overcrowded prisons, the Judiciary of Zambia has launched a pilot project for mobile courts at the Lusaka Central Correctional Facility. This initiative, developed in partnership with the National Prosecution Authority (NPA), Zambia Correctional Service, and the Legal Aid Board, is supported by the Irish Embassy in Zambia and Irish Rule of Law International.
The Honorable Mr. Justice Charles Zulu, Judge-in-Charge of the High Court Generalist, represented the Hon. Chief Justice of Zambia, Dr. Mumba Malila, SC, during the launch event. Justice Zulu emphasized that the mobile courts would bring justice directly to inmates, reducing logistical challenges like vehicle breakdowns that hinder inmate transportation. He stated, “This is a step forward in entrenching the principle of access to justice for inmates by taking justice to their doorsteps.”
Purpose and Scope of Mobile Courts in Zambia
Justice Zulu clarified that the mobile courts are not designed to conduct trials but will focus on non-contentious processes such as updating court records, setting trial dates, reviewing cases stalled due to state inaction, and varying bail conditions. These processes will complement the existing visiting justice program, which assesses the living conditions of inmates in correctional facilities.
The initiative aligns with the Judiciary’s vision of being “a just and accountable Judiciary guaranteeing justice for all.” Chief Justice Malila remains committed to promoting open justice and breaking down barriers to efficient legal processes.
Impact on Inmates and the Justice System
Deputy Commissioner General of the Zambia Correctional Service, Mr. Bwalya Kuyomba, expressed optimism that the mobile courts would alleviate the mental and emotional distress of inmates facing prolonged legal uncertainty. This initiative promises to expedite judicial processes, providing timely relief to those awaiting their court appearances.
Irish Rule of Law International’s Country Director, Mr. Norville Connolly, praised the initiative’s potential to assist inmates overlooked by the justice system. He expressed hopes for the project’s expansion to Kabwe and the Copperbelt, in collaboration with the Prisoners Future Foundation. Similarly, Ms. Sara Larios, Executive Director of Undikumukire Project Zambia, described the mobile courts as a practical solution to reducing barriers to justice, particularly for marginalized and financially disadvantaged individuals.
A Step Toward Justice Reform
Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Mr. Gilbert Phiri, acknowledged the launch as a groundbreaking milestone in Zambia’s justice system. He commended all stakeholders for their collaboration, highlighting the initiative’s potential to reduce prison overcrowding and expedite case resolutions.
Coinciding with the United Nations World Day of Social Justice, this initiative underscores Zambia’s commitment to equitable and accessible justice. The mobile courts project was initially conceptualized by Irish Rule of Law International in 2022, inspired by Malawi’s successful Camp Courts initiative. In January 2024, a Memorandum of Understanding was signed by the Judiciary of Zambia, NPA, Legal Aid Board, and Zambia Correctional Service to formalize the implementation of this project.
To learn more about this initiative, please visit the official source of this information: Press Release: Launch of Pilot Mobile Court.