DIGITALIZATION OF JUDICIAL PROCEEDINGS IN AFRICA: THE CURRENT STATUS AND PATHS OF DEVELOPMENT

Introduction: digital technology is being rapidly introduced in judicial processes in African countries, which offers new opportunities in terms of improving justice. However, there are significant differences in levels of digitalization between the countries and regions. Purpose and objectives: the study aims to analyze the current state of digitalization in African judicial systems and to identify ways of their further development. The objectives include assessing digital solutions that have been implemented, analyzing their impact on the accessibility and quality of justice, and identifying the main obstacles to digitalization. Methods: a comparative analysis of digital solutions in the judicial systems of different African countries, statistical and regulatory analysis; additionally, an analysis of best practices in digital justice across African countries was conducted. Results: the study shows that the digitalization of judicial processes is actively developing, especially in terms of electronic document management and video-conferencing systems. Some countries have seen positive changes in the accessibility and transparency of justice. However, insufficiency of legal regulation, low digital literacy, and poor technical infrastructure still represent significant challenges. Conclusions: successful digitalization of court proceedings in African countries requires comprehensive infrastructure development, upgrading of the skills of court personnel, and the introduction of unified standards. International cooperation and exchange of experience are key to overcoming the existing obstacles. Enhancing digitalization in the judicial system contributes to the accessibility and efficiency of justice, to the strengthening of legal systems and social justice.