• Priscilla Monama
• 02 Jul 2025

Integrated Justice System Sets Strategic Direction for MTEF 2025/26

The IJS held its strategic planning session on February 20-21, 2025, at Diep in die Berg in Pretoria. The two-day gathering brought together key stakeholders from member departments, research Institutes and broader criminal justice sector to chart the course for the upcoming Medium Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) 2025/26.

The session was led by Mr. Munyai, IJS Head of Programme Implementation, and discussions facilitated by Mr. Joe Khosa on strengthening South Africa's criminal justice framework.

Business-Driven Modernization

In his address, Department of Justice and Constitutional Development Director-General, Adv. Doc Mashabane, emphasized that modernisation efforts must be business-driven rather than technology-focused.

"Business must drive modernisation. It is not only about technology but also business processes," he stated. The DG further elaborated that true transformation requires examining and reimagining how justice services are delivered, with technology serving as an enabler rather than the focal point. “This approach ensures that digital solutions are tailored to address specific operational challenges and improve service delivery, rather than implementing technology for its own sake.”

DG Doc Mashabane further noted the need to digitise and learn from global best practices, specifically citing the UAE's digital police stations as models of fully digital operations that South Africa could emulate.

Digital Transformation as a Journey

Dr. Mtshweni from the CSIR provided valuable insights on the nature of digital transformation. "Digital transformation is not an event but a process which has successes and failures as part of its journey," he reflected. His remarks highlighted the importance of viewing transformation as an ongoing evolutionary process rather than a one-time implementation.

Dr. Mtshweni advocated for embracing early adoption of technology and learning through implementation. He pointed out that South Africa holds the distinction of being the first country in Africa with internet addiction, suggesting that this high level of digital engagement could be leveraged to improve crime prevention and response mechanisms.

Key Discussion Points

Partnerships and Stakeholder Engagement

Partnerships and collaboration enhancement across member departments emerged as a major concern. The SAPS Exhibit Management initiative highlighted challenges with stakeholder buy-in and adoption, with concerns about business initiatives being converted into IT projects without proper alignment.

Digital Access Expansion

Expanding digital access to rural areas was recognized as crucial, with potential for exploring AI chatbots to provide instant access to legal assistance in remote areas. Another key example was the guidance to integrated functionalities into the MYSAPS mobile app, such as Namola integration, which requires internal discussion to ensure value alignment.

Benefit Realization and Measurement

Ms. Nolundi Tiya – IJS PMO emphasized that benefit realization is not properly documented by departments. She called for the IJS programme to demonstrate impact through achieved benefits, suggesting success metrics should be tied to budget allocations to show value. This approach would enhance sponsor engagement and clarify the value of initiatives such as departmental MOUs.

Infrastructure Modernization

Infrastructure modernization was identified as key to enabling access to social services in remote areas. Participants cautioned against pursuing advanced technologies like AI without addressing foundational infrastructure deficiencies, citing the DOJ&CD cybersecurity compromise as an example of risks from aging infrastructure.

Single Case Management System

The establishment of a solid single case management system was discussed, with concerns that departmental siloes could undermine user benefits despite individual technological advances.

Response to Infrastructure Challenges

Mr. Munyai addressed infrastructure concerns, noting that the National Treasury directives require IJS member departments to maintain their own baseline ICT budgets, with IJS directed to avoid infrastructure development. He reported that:

• Member department infrastructure requirements total 1.4 billion, with SAPS being the largest contributor
• The IJS continues to engage with National Treasury regarding these needs
• Financial constraints limit the programme's ability to address infrastructure requirements

Governance and Change Management

Ms. Tiya outlined the importance of governance as an enabler of successful project implementation, emphasising standards and methodologies. Recommendations included:

• Comprehensive change management needs assessments for all departments
• Bringing in consultants to conduct impact assessments of IJS projects
• Skills transfer to empower departments to manage their own assessments
• Establishing a committee to address IJS-related supply chain and procurement delays, with specific concerns about SITA performance

The strategic planning session marked an important milestone in South Africa's ongoing efforts to transform its justice system through integrated approaches and technological innovation.

The two-day strategic planning session successfully achieved its core objectives: evaluating the IJS Programme's progress to date; deepening stakeholders' understanding of the IJS mandate and its alignment with JCPS Cluster strategic goals; providing comprehensive updates on IJS projects under the 2023/24 MTEF; addressing programme delivery challenges through collaborative problem-solving; and identifying priority initiatives for implementation in the upcoming 2024/2025 fiscal year. This productive engagement has positioned the IJS Programme to continue its critical work of transforming South Africa's justice system through enhanced collaboration, technological innovation, and business-driven modernization.