President of the United Republic of Tanzania, Her Excellency Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, highlighted that Tanzania had become the 40th African country to ratify the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) agreement, making it a full member of this historic trade zone.
AfCFTA has united eight major economic communities, creating one of the largest free trade areas globally, with a population of approximately 1.3 billion people and a combined GDP of around USD 3.4 trillion.
Samia said that during the opening of the annual meeting of the Chief Justices of Southern and Eastern African Countries (SEACJF) in Arusha, Tanzania, on October 23, 2023,
She emphasized that the success of AfCFTA would depend on recognizing the significant role played by courts in resolving domestic and cross-border trade disputes. National Courts have been instrumental in maintaining peace, stability, and unity, which are essential for the effective implementation of AfCFTA, leading to economic growth and increased domestic and foreign investments.
The theme of the annual meeting was "The Role of International Courts in Resolving Conflicts in the African Continental Free Trade Area: The Use of Modern Technology to Enhance Efficiency in Dispensing Justice," a highly relevant topic in today's context.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, many nations had to suspend various activities. However, Tanzania continued its normal operations, including the judicial system, by utilizing technology to serve its citizens effectively. President Samia highlighted that this technological solution not only allowed the judicial system to continue functioning but also boosted entrepreneurship, economic growth, and employment opportunities.
The application of technology within the framework of AfCFTA is expected to yield substantial benefits, including addressing challenges related to food security, unemployment, and more.
Chief Justice of Tanzania, Professor Ibrahim Hamis Juma, Addresses the Role of National Courts
The annual SEACJF meeting provides a platform for national courts to convene and discuss new issues that affect justice administration in various African national jurisdictions.
Chief Justice Professor Ibrahim Hamis Juma emphasized that African national courts had learned valuable lessons from the global COVID-19 pandemic about adapting to digital technology to ensure the continued dispensation of justice.
Although AfCFTA may seem distant from the scope of national courts, in reality, the cross-border dimensions of AfCFTA are already a reality. Therefore, during the meeting in Arusha, the discussion revolved around the expectations and roles of national courts within the context of AfCFTA's practical implications.
Peter Shivute, Chairman of the SEACJF, Reflects on the Forum
The Chief Justices of Southern and Eastern African Countries (SEACJF) Forum, established in Johannesburg, South Africa, on December 7, 2003, was founded to strengthen cooperation between courts. Its primary objectives include promoting the Rule of Law, democracy, and judicial independence.
Over the years, SEACJF has convened annual meetings, with the exception of years affected by global events such as the COVID-19 pandemic.
This year's meeting holds special significance, as it marks 20 years since the forum's establishment. With 16 member countries, 15 of which were represented at this meeting, the forum continues to expand.
The role of technology in the legal landscape is undeniable in today's world, and during this gathering, the focus was on how to harness technology in dispute resolution.
In summary, the annual SEACJF meeting provided a platform for leaders, including President Samia Suluhu Hassan and Chief Justice Professor Ibrahim Hamis Juma, to discuss the vital role of technology in courts, especially within the context of the AfCFTA. The use of digital solutions is recognized as pivotal in enhancing efficiency and ensuring justice continues to be served, even in a rapidly changing and challenging global environment
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