Strengthening Responsible Use of Artificial Intelligence

The Judiciary has taken another step toward modernising the justice system by hosting a training on the responsible use of Artificial Intelligence (AI). The two-day session, held from Wednesday, 26 February 2026, in Blantyre, brought together Honourable Justices of Appeal and Judges of the High Court and was organised by the Judiciary Digitalisation Committee and the Judiciary Training Committee with support from the European Union under the Chilungamo II programme.

Speaking when opening the training, Honourable Justice of Appeal Healey Potani, noted that while AI can manage information faster, it will never replace the wisdom, judgment, and integrity of judges.

“We should embrace innovation, but never lose sight of our duty to responsibly apply the innovations in our courts.”

Honourable Justice Fiona Mwale spoke on behalf of the Judiciary Digitalisation Committee, and she emphasised that AI, particularly generative AI, is already influencing daily institutional practices worldwide. She further remarked that the question is not whether AI will affect the administration of justice, but how the Judiciary will respond deliberately, responsibly, and in a manner that strengthens, rather than compromises, its constitutional mandate.

“We are not here to adopt technology uncritically, nor to resist innovation reflexively. We are here to build an informed, institutional position, grounded in judicial values, on what AI can responsibly support, and what it must never be permitted to replace.”

The training explored three critical themes: how AI works, technology in the Judiciary, and the impact of AI on judicial processes. It was facilitated by Dr Amelia Taylor, an expert consultant and Lecturer at Malawi University of Business and Applied Sciences (MUBAS), who conducted preliminary consultations with judicial officers and members of staff to shape the curriculum.

Honourable Justice Chipao, Chairperson of the Judiciary Training Committee, said Artificial intelligence is rapidly transforming the way societies function.

“As the Judiciary, we cannot be left behind. We need to keep abreast of these developments. This training, therefore, comes at the right time.”

Subsequent training sessions will also be held for the management and members of staff of the Judiciary.