UNICEF commended for supporting the judiciary

Yeukai Karengezeka
Court Correspondent
The Judicial Services Commission (JSC) has commended UNICEF for its pivotal role in strengthening Zimbabwe’s justice delivery system, particularly through the establishment and support of Victim Friendly Courts (VFCs).
Speaking at the official opening of the 2025 Judicial Year in Harare on Monday, Deputy Chief Justice Elizabeth Gwaunza said the VFC initiative is one of the judiciary’s greatest achievements.
She noted that public trust in the victim-friendly system has reached unprecedented levels.
VFCs are designed to protect vulnerable witnesses, especially victims of sexual abuse, by creating a safe and supportive environment for them to testify.
“It is important to acknowledge the critical role played by UNICEF in the Victim Friendly Court system,” said Justice Gwaunza.
“Through our partnership, UNICEF has significantly contributed to the training of judicial officers, police, and prosecutors, while also providing vital equipment and supporting witnesses.
“This collaboration has been one of the judiciary’s greatest success stories, with the system now operating at national, provincial, and district levels.
“Public confidence in the victim-friendly system is stronger than ever, and we are grateful for UNICEF’s continued support and involvement.”
The VFCs feature specialised facilities, including separate rooms where survivors can give their testimonies in a protective environment, thereby minimising trauma.
Key components of the system include closed-circuit television for recording survivors’ statements and intermediaries who assist survivors during the court process.
Currently, 22 regional courts across Zimbabwe serve as VFCs.
UNICEF, with the support of Sweden through the Child Protection Fund, the European Union via the Spotlight Initiative, and other donors, have been instrumental in establishing and sustaining VFCs for over a decade.
Justice Gwaunza also highlighted the progress made in modernising Zimbabwe’s judiciary through the Integrated Electronic Case Management System (IECMS) which has been rolled out in upper courts.
“As expected with a project of such national significance, challenges arose, but through cooperation and resilience, we overcame them. Over time, public confidence in the IECMS has grown, and more litigants now rely on the system.
“Stakeholders are therefore encouraged to maintain this positive momentum as we expand the IECMS to the busiest courts – the Magistrates’ Courts,” she said.
Justice Gwaunza said stakeholder participation will remain critical in 2025, aligning with the JSC’s theme for the year – “Building Public Confidence in the Judiciary through Multi-Stakeholder Participation.”
The Deputy Chief Justice further acknowledged the contributions of various stakeholders in creating an environment where justice can thrive.
With UNICEF’s continued partnership and the judiciary’s commitment to innovation and inclusivity, Zimbabwe’s justice system is making significant strides in ensuring the protection of vulnerable groups and enhancing public confidence in legal processes