By Paul Madise

Lilongwe, May 9, Mana: The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) in the Ministry of Justice, Masauko Chamkakala, has pledged total commitment to ensure the recipient of assorted Information Communication Technology (ICT) from United Nations Development Programme (UNPD) are used for the best use noting that the development will significantly enhance the DPP`s operations.

Chamkakala made the remarks on Friday during the handover ceremony of ICT equipment to the DPP at Capitol Hill, Ministry of Justice Forecourt in Lilongwe.

He emphasized the need for ICT equipment to support the effective functioning of the case management system, further stating that the equipment received will greatly assist the DPP’s transition to a fully electronic system.

Chamkakala further said that the assorted ITC equipment which among others includes tablets, all-in-one computers, printers, servers, firewalls, and network essentials, will facilitate the underway existing transition process from hard copy systems embracing the 21st century`s digital approach of capturing statistics, which will be crucial for making informed decisions as well as simplify business operations at the DPP.

“Last record indicated that we have registered about 2,500 cases for the system, but we do still have work to do to digitize the remaining old files which are still live with us. Part of that exercise will be done using this equipment, but the caseload is too much that we may need some separate assistance just to put into everything on the system,” Ckamkakala explained.

In her speech, Nanise Saune-Qaloewai UNDP Officer In-Charge resident representative expressed that the handover signifies a testament to the strong partnership between UNDP and the Government of Malawi and a shared commitment to strengthening the rule of law, enhancing access to justice, and promoting sustainable development.

“In today's digital age, ICT is no longer a luxury but a necessity. For institutions like the DPP, ICT is critical in improving efficiency, transparency, and accountability in the administration of justice. We recognize the critical role of the DPP in ensuring that justice is served, and we are committed to supporting your efforts through technical assistance, capacity building, and the provision of essential resources,” she said.

In June 2024, the Directorate of Public Prosecutions (DPP) requested support from the UNDP for ICT equipment to enhance its Electronic Case Management System. The UNDP responded positively and procured ICT equipment worth one hundred and eight thousand US dollars ($108,000) for the DPP office.