Transparency and reliance on protected heavy data in Uganda
Justice Kiryabwire acknowledged the resilience of the Judiciary's website, which remained operational even during the challenging times of the COVID-19 lockdown.
UGANDA - Justice Geoffrey Kiryabwire, a distinguished member of the Court of Appeal in Uganda, highlighted the Judiciary's commitment to transparency and data protection during the launch of the National Digital Transformation Roadmap. He emphasized that while the Judiciary shares information on its website like many other institutions, what sets it apart is the substantial amount of data it manages. He mentioned that this data-heavy approach is designed to facilitate strategic leveraging and differentiation of various stakeholders, particularly women and children involved in disputes, using Ugandan shillings as the reference currency.
Justice Kiryabwire acknowledged the resilience of the Judiciary's website, which remained operational even during the challenging times of the COVID-19 lockdown. He participated as a panelist in the launch event, where he conveyed the Judiciary's unique approach to data management and protection.
Because of the Judiciary's heavy reliance on data, Justice Kiryabwire explained that they adopt a hack-proof approach to protect sensitive information. He also emphasized the paramount importance of safeguarding data, especially in a digital landscape that is vulnerable to various threats.
Drawing attention to the intricate nature of digital cases that might appear before the courts, Justice Kiryabwire called upon the Ugandan government to invest in forensic capabilities. He highlighted the necessity of having a pool of skilled experts who can provide scientific insights during trials involving complex digital cases. He proposed that these experts be actively involved in the data center, which would enhance the judiciary's capacity to approach dispute resolution in a more systematic and evidence-based manner.
Furthermore, Justice Kiryabwire advocated for the implementation of digital audits as a means to gain insights into the digital sphere's dynamics. Regular and thorough checks, he argued, are essential not only for identifying criminal activities but also for addressing civil disputes where compensation might be sought. By keeping a vigilant eye on the digital realm, the Judiciary could effectively respond to emerging issues and contribute to a fair and just legal environment.
In conclusion, Justice Geoffrey Kiryabwire's remarks during the launch of the National Digital Transformation Roadmap underscore the Judiciary's commitment to data protection, transparency, and leveraging technology for efficient dispute resolution. His insights shed light on the significance of a robust digital infrastructure, the involvement of forensic experts, and the regular auditing of digital spaces to maintain a safe and accountable digital environment.
