Media Statement

Minister of Justice takes action to address Court operational challenges

19 March 2025

The Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Ms Mmamoloko Kubayi, acknowledged in a written reply to a parliamentary question submitted on Tuesday, 18 March 2025, the significant challenges affecting court operations due to load shedding, water outages, system failures, and infrastructure issues.

These disruptions have adversely impacted the adjudication of cases, occasionally forcing courts to close.

To mitigate these challenges, the Department has implemented several measures aimed at ensuring the continuity of court operations.

1. Back-up Power Supply

The department has prioritised power solutions to minimize the impact of load shedding:

• Installation of Generators
  A project has been registered with the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI) for the installation of generators at identified service points. A total of 460 projects have been registered for backup power supply. Currently, 153 courts are fully functional during load shedding, 24 are under construction, and 235 are undergoing site clearance for generator installation or upgrades.
• Renewable Energy Solutions
  The department is exploring alternative energy sources, including solar power and inverters, to enhance long-term energy security. A pilot programme has been initiated to install these solutions at selected court service points.
• Future Infrastructure Planning
  All new court infrastructure projects registered with DPWI include provisions for backup power to ensure uninterrupted operations.
• Engagement with Eskom
  The department has formally requested Eskom to exempt courts from load shedding schedules, recognizing their essential role in the justice system. A response from Eskom is awaited.

2. Addressing Water Outages

The Department has initiated projects to install backup water supply solutions, including tanks, boreholes, and pumps, at various courts.

Out of 176 registered projects, 43 have been completed, 8 are under construction, and the remainder are in the planning phase.

3. Infrastructure Repairs and Renovations

Recognizing the impact of deteriorating infrastructure, the department, in collaboration with DPWI, is implementing a planned maintenance programme to upgrade court facilities:

• In the last five years, six courts were prioritized for major renovations.
• Under the Repair and Renovate programme, 12 courts have undergone substantial refurbishment.

The Department of Justice and Constitutional Development remains committed to ensuring that courts remain operational despite ongoing infrastructural challenges.

The department will continue working with stakeholders to enhance service delivery and maintain access to justice for all South Africans.

Audio: Terrence Manase, Spokesperson to Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development on the Minister taking action to address courts operational challenges.

Media Enquiries
Mr Terrence Manase
Spokesperson: Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Development
082 338 6707

Issued by the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Development of the Republic of South Africa