The installation of audio-visual system links in five High courts and Family Division enhanced the functionality of child-friendly justice procedures in handling VAC and GBV cases involving child witnesses and victims. The training of 62 (44F:18M) judicial officers (62 prosecutors, police officers, Defence Counsel, and Probation and Social Welfare Officers) in plea- bargaining processes ensured that victims are consulted before a sentence is agreed upon and increased their participation in the process. There was a notable increase in the use of trauma-informed and victim- centred approaches during SGBV sessions in 2022. Of note was the prioritization of cases of children, provision of refreshments during sessions, utilization of child friendly spaces and improvising where they are not available, using anatomical dolls to prevent re-victimization of victims and the use of closed sessions.

Efficiencies in prosecution were boosted through increasing the number of evidence collection vans with cold storage units, resulting in the timely delivery of exhibits and reports, and a profound improvement in the quality of evidence submitted to the laboratory for analysis. Consumables procured range from DNA extraction, quantification, Polymerase Chain Reaction and separation and detection kits. These have been used to process cases on rape, defilement, child neglect and child stealing. The procurement of 18 crime scene cameras improved investigation officers’ capacity to collect, analyze and present acceptable visual electronic evidence.