Last week, during a visit to the Agoè-Nyivé courthouse, Lisa Rosen, Group Vice President for Ethics and Internal Justice Services at the World Bank, reaffirmed the organization’s dedication to community justice. Accompanied by a delegation, she had the opportunity to observe the operations of the courthouses, which serve as low-cost venues for resolving minor disputes.
Increasing Influence and Utilization
Since their establishment in 2018, the justice centers have acted as intermediaries between traditional courts and local mediation systems. They alleviate the burden on conventional courts while offering communities free and simplified access to justice.
Data shared by Roger Tagbé, Director of Access to Law and Justice, indicates a rise in referrals from 3,857 in 2022 to 5,518 in 2024, demonstrating a growing acceptance of the system. Additionally, the total amount recovered has surged from 53 million CFA francs in 2022 to 112 million CFA francs in 2024. The success rate for mediation and conciliation has also improved, reaching over 90% in 2024, up from 85.80% in 2023.
Enhanced Support from the World Bank
In response to these positive developments, the World Bank has pledged to support the establishment of 12 new justice centers, including four in the Savanes region.
According to Mipamb-Nahm-Tchougli, the Minister of Justice, these initiatives are vital for creating a more accessible and efficient justice system that aligns with national development and governance priorities.
