A new electronic payment system will see court users making payments at Magistrates' Courts through point-of-sale facilities, reducing the judiciary's reliance on cash transactions.
The Office of the Judiciary, in partnership with First National Bank Namibia, has launched the rollout of the system as part of efforts to modernise court services and improve access to justice.
The initiative will make payments such as traffic fines and court fees more convenient while addressing challenges associated with handling large volumes of cash.
Court users can now make payments using debit and credit cards, as well as FNB eWallet, allowing even those without traditional bank accounts to access the service.
Chief Justice Peter Shivute explained that the electronic payments will also improve financial controls, reconciliation and accountability by creating accurate transaction records and strengthening audit trails.
“It's also about ensuring that administrative processes do not become barriers to members of the public seeking to or receiving court services. Multiple payment channels will make court services more accessible and user-friendly. Citizens should be able to interact with the justice system in a manner that reflects the realities of modern life.”
The rollout is expected to make court-related transactions faster, safer and more efficient for both court users and officials.
FNB Public Sector Banking Account Executive Hans Bolle said the partnership with the Office of the Judiciary demonstrates the bank's commitment to supporting efficient and accessible public services.
“That is why our commitment cannot end with supplying the devices. A device on a counter is only the visible part of a project like this. It takes people on both sides to understand the requirements, work through the practical details, and prepare the service for use.”
The initiative also forms part of the Judiciary's broader digital transformation agenda, with the Chief Justice pointing out court digitisation, improved access to justice and the transition towards a cashless court environment as key objectives.
Shivute said the launch marks another step in the Judiciary's ongoing efforts to use technology to improve service delivery across the country.