Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi on expansion of court services to advance access to justice in rural areas and townships

Under the leadership of the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Mmamoloko Kubayi, the Department has taken a significant step in advancing access to justice through the extension of additional services at selected courts across the country.

These additional services will come into effect from 31 March 2026.

As part of this focused intervention, the Department has identified 18 courts to offer expanded services, bringing justice closer to communities and improving the efficiency of the justice system.

The extended services include maintenance, family law, children's court services, domestic violence and protection from harassment, small claims courts, and criminal services, which are essential to supporting individuals and families.

The Minister emphasised that the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa guarantees access to courts as a fundamental right, central to the protection and enforcement of all other rights.

"In giving effect to this obligation, the Department continues to implement measures aimed at ensuring that justice services are accessible to all, particularly in rural and historically disadvantaged communities," said Minister Kubayi.

The expansion spans all provinces and reflects a deliberate effort to strengthen access in rural and township areas, with particular emphasis on services that support vulnerable groups.

Minister Kubayi added: "This initiative represents an important step in ensuring that justice is accessible to all. By extending services closer to communities, we are reducing barriers and reinforcing the constitutional promise of equality before the law."

This initiative forms part of broader efforts led by the Minister to build a responsive, people-centred justice system that is accessible, efficient, and equitable.

Communities in the identified areas are encouraged to make use of these services.

The courts that will benefit from the extension of services are:

Eastern Cape

• Bityi
• Dimbaza

Free State

• Rosendal
• Tweespruit

Gauteng

• Kliptown
• Orlando (Soweto)

KwaZulu-Natal

• Richards Bay
• Dukuza

Limpopo

• Materekeng
• Senwamokgope

Mpumalanga

• Masoyi
• Driekiesdorp

Northern Cape

• Heuningsvlei
• Tsineng

North West

• Ottoshoop
• Marikana

Western Cape

• Philippi
• Plettenberg Bay

Enquiries:
Spokesperson to the Minister
Terrence Manase
Cell: 082 338 6707

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