Rwanda’s Justice System Gets a Tech Upgrade
Rwanda’s justice system has introduced a new AI-powered legal platform aimed at helping lawyers, judges, and prosecutors work more efficiently. Created by local legal tech firm IST Legal, this platform streamlines legal processes, reduces bureaucratic delays, and simplifies case management. It offers features like legal research, document automation, and case tracking—all accessible in Kinyarwanda, English, and French.
This launch coincides with Rwanda’s focus on the ethical use of artificial intelligence within its judiciary. Chief Justice Domitilla Mukantaganzwa supports this initiative to make the justice system fairer, more accessible, and less dependent on paperwork.
Key Features of the Platform
One major feature is the end-to-end case management system for criminal cases. It digitally connects investigators, prosecutors, courts, and correctional services, enabling real-time updates and eliminating delays caused by manual file transfers.
Ghislain Bisamaza, one of the AI engineers behind the platform, explains: “Just input the legal issue, and the system recommends potential legal remedies based on current Rwandan law.” This acts like a digital paralegal, helping legal professionals find solutions faster.
Ongoing Development and Support
IST Legal’s CEO, Mariam Muganga, notes that the platform is still being refined and integrated with Rwanda’s national systems, including the Integrated Electronic Case Management System (IECMS). Their goal is to build a smarter, more accessible justice system that benefits all Rwandans.
Rwanda’s Minister of ICT and Innovation, Paula Ingabire, supports the project enthusiastically. She highlights it as a strong example of how AI can improve public service delivery and expresses hope that the platform will expand beyond Rwanda.
This move marks a promising step towards a more efficient and user-friendly justice system, reducing delays and improving legal workflows for professionals across the country.
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