Bulawayo hosts 2025 Legal Year

The stage is set for the official opening of the 2025 Legal Year, which will take place tomorrow at the Bulawayo High Court. Chief Justice Luke Malaba will preside over the main event, marking a significant day in Zimbabwe's legal calendar.

By yesterday, preparations were well underway, with roads around the Bulawayo High Court, including Herbert Chitepo Street and Eighth Avenue, barricaded in anticipation of the event. This year's opening comes on the heels of substantial advancements in judicial infrastructure and the integration of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs), which have enhanced efficiency and reduced costs in legal processes.

The opening ceremony will be held under the theme, "Building Public Confidence in the Judiciary through Stakeholder Participation." The Judicial Services Commission (JSC) aims to build on its 2024 achievements by further improving access to justice and judicial administration across Zimbabwe.

JSC spokesperson, Mr. Daniel Nemukuyu, highlighted the strides made in 2024 during an interview with Sunday News.

"In 2024, we initiated eight major projects, including new magistrates' courts in Gwanda, Mutawatawa, Chiredzi, Triangle, Cowdray Park, Kwekwe, Mabvuku, and Brunaperg. Two of these  -  the Chiredzi and Triangle Magistrates' Courts  -  were completed and officially commissioned last September," he said.

Significant progress has been made on other projects, including the Gwanda Court Complex, which is nearing completion.

"The Gwanda project has most of the building roofed, with a few areas still requiring work. We anticipate completion soon with support from Treasury," Mr. Nemukuyu noted.

The Mutawatawa Magistrates' Court is also advancing, with roofing completed and finishing touches such as door fittings, electrical work, and tiling underway. It is expected to open in the first quarter of 2025, resources permitting.

Other projects include the Cowdray Park Magistrates' Court in Bulawayo, where visible progress has been made, and the Kwekwe Magistrates' Court, which is at slab level. Preparations for the Mabvuku Magistrates' Court include foundation excavation and borehole drilling, while the Brunaperg Magistrates' Court has seen perimeter fencing and borehole drilling initiated.

"These projects are vital for enhancing access to justice and judicial administration, and the JSC remains committed to their completion," said Mr. Nemukuyu.

This year's opening ceremony will feature a decentralised approach, aligning with President Mnangagwa's devolution policy.
"The main event will be at the Bulawayo High Court, but simultaneous ceremonies will take place nationwide," explained Mr. Nemukuyu.

Deputy Chief Justice Elizabeth Gwaunza will preside over the Harare ceremony, Justice Anne-Mary Gowora will oversee proceedings in Masvingo, Justice Ben Hlatshwayo will lead in Mutare, and Deputy Judge President Garainesu Mawadze will preside in Chinhoyi.

The opening of the legal year symbolizes a fresh chapter for the judiciary, offering an opportunity to reflect on past milestones and challenges while strengthening public trust in the legal system.

"This occasion reaffirms our commitment to upholding justice, protecting rights, and fostering collaboration among stakeholders," Mr. Nemukuyu said.

The event is also expected to serve as a platform for dialogue among judges, lawyers, and other legal professionals, reinforcing the foundations of Zimbabwe's judiciary as it embarks on another year dedicated to justice and fairness.