Chief Justice Koome praised the National Transcription Centre, emphasising that technology negates the need for temporary staff, thus safeguarding the integrity of sensitive court data Judiciary told TUKO.co.ke that none of those employed by the Judiciary will lose their job and will be working with the AI tools to ease work rather than outsource temporary help.
Chief Justice Martha Koome and Chief Registrar of the Judiciary (CJR) Winfridah Mokaya visited the Milimani Anti-Corruption Court and the National Transcription Centre. Among the topics of discussion during the visit was the adoption of technology as an enabler of justice.
How the Judiciary is using AI A significant aspect of their visit was to the National Transcription Centre, established as a pilot in October 2023. This centre has revolutionised the process of transcribing court proceedings by utilising AI to transcribe them overnight. Chief Justice Koome expressed her satisfaction with the National Transcription Centre, labelling it as a "dream come true." “Technology has been the missing link. The use of technology as opposed to hiring of temporary staff to type proceedings secures the integrity of court data and information that is very sensitive,” said Koome in a tweet by Judiciary.
The newly appointed CJR commended the ICT and transcription teams for their innovative approach and pledged her support in rolling out the technology nationwide. "As I settle into office, my role will be support and facilitation. I’ll maintain an open door policy so that we engage" said CJR Mokaya. Will Judiciary staff lose their jobs? Speaking to TUKO.co.ke, the Judiciary clarified that it has been partly outsourcing transcription services through the Ajira Digital Programme to support its employees in transcribing court proceedings.
Virtual hearings in Kenyan courts Additionally, the Anti-Corruption Court has installed videoconferencing and recording equipment that has enabled the presentation of e-evidence and the remote participation of accused persons and witnesses.
