The new Katima Mulilo Magistrate's Court has been built with security features to protect children and adults who may find the court environment intimidating.
The court was inaugurated today by Chief Justice Peter Shivute, who indicated that the enhanced security features are not only important for the staff but for the public as well.
"This new building has been designed with the needs of vulnerable witnesses in mind, particularly children and adults who may find the court environment intimidating; the creation of private and secure waiting areas demonstrates our commitment to safeguarding the dignity of vulnerable witnesses or individuals in general; these areas provide a calm and private space, ensuring that witnesses can participate in the judiciary process without added stress or anxiety."
Shivute described the installation of a one-way viewing glass in the vulnerable witness testifying room as a notable innovation, which will allow witnesses to testify without direct visual contact with the accused.
Justice Minister Yvvone Dausab indicated that the inauguration marked the conclusion of the current series of court inaugurations that had been planned for this period.
Dausab said other future developments have been planned in the commitment to enhance access to justice for all Namibians through the provisions of court facilities in all regions.
She appealed to the community leaders to play an active role in educating their communities on their rights to access justice, especially through community courts.
"This approach goes hand in hand with these efforts; it shifts the focus from punishment alone to reconciliation and rehabilitation. Restorative justice illuminates the path towards healing within communities, focussing on restoring relationships and addressing the harm caused by criminal behaviour. This is especially important in our context, where the focus is not only on deterring crime but on rebuilding trust and harmony within our communities."
The building constructed for N$84 million will complement the current facilities in use since pre-independence and features a regional and district court, separate entrance areas for trial-awaiting individuals, and holding cells, among other features.