This, he said, includes the full digitisation of the Deeds Registry and the expansion of regional offices for NAATIP, NALA, and ADRS.
He stated that the absence of modern technological infrastructure in certain departments hinders his Ministry's efforts to enhance efficiency and accessibility.
Speaking during the recent opening of the 2025 Legal Year, the Minister said: “A significant shortage of personnel across various departments is putting tremendous pressure on current staff and hindering their ability to respond effectively to emerging legal challenges.”
“We are dedicated to bridging these gaps through strategic recruitment and by prioritizing ongoing professional development to ensure our workforce is well-equipped to handle the complexities of today’s legal landscape,” he stated
He further underscored their commitment to strengthening institutions by enhancing recruitment initiatives, investing in modern technology, and implementing a robust digital case management system to streamline operations and improve service delivery.
He noted that their outreach initiatives will also be expanded through radio, television, and social media, aiming to educate citizens about their rights and the legal services offered by the ministry.
“We are committed to enhancing outreach efforts in rural and underserved communities, ensuring that justice is accessible to everyone, regardless of their geographical location," he stated.
Regarding Criminal Justice and Prosecutorial Reforms, he continued that the office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) has achieved significant milestones over the past year, adding: “The DPP has handled an unprecedented caseload, ensuring that justice is delivered swiftly and fairly.”
He affirmed that their targeted prosecutions and public awareness campaigns have sent a clear message that such crimes will not be tolerated in The Gambia.
“The ongoing digitization of our case management system has begun to revolutionize case handling, enhancing transparency, efficiency, and accountability. Despite resource constraints, we have ensured that prosecutors are consistently present in all courts nationwide, reaffirming our unwavering commitment to delivering justice.”
“The ongoing battle against human trafficking is one of our highest priorities. Under the leadership of the National Agency Against Trafficking in Persons (NAATIP), we have launched transformative initiatives such as a comprehensive national trafficking database, public awareness campaigns, and a toll-free hotline. These efforts have significantly enhanced our capabilities to confront this abhorrent crime,” he emphasised.
He indicated that The Gambia’s consecutive Tier 2 rankings in the U.S. State Department’s Trafficking in Persons Report is a testament to their unwavering commitment to eradicating human trafficking.
He maintained that NALA has achieved remarkable progress in expanding access to justice, with mobile legal aid clinics reaching over 50 communities in 2024 and equipping citizens, especially those in marginalised areas, with crucial legal knowledge and assistance.
“Moreover, NALA’s initiatives to minimize prolonged pretrial detention have been essential in upholding due process and safeguarding detainee rights."
Justice Minister Jallow further added: “The Alternative Dispute Resolution Secretariat (ADRS) has continued to be a beacon of progress. In 2024, ADRS resolved 90% of the 76 cases registered, providing a peaceful and efficient alternative to the traditional court system.”
He said through innovative outreach campaigns, they have raised public awareness about the benefits of alternative dispute resolution, fostering a culture of peaceful conflict resolution.
