Sunyani, Bono Region – The integration of innovation and technology into the justice system is set to transform the way disputes are resolved, particularly through Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR), Chief Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie has emphasized. Speaking at the launch of the 2026 ADR Week in Sunyani, he described ADR as a critical tool for making justice more accessible, efficient, and responsive to the public.
Themed “Adoption of Innovation and Technology to Enhance Access to Justice Delivery through ADR,” the week-long celebration, running from Monday, March 16 to Friday, March 20, aims to increase public awareness of ADR’s role within the court system. It also provides an avenue for citizens to engage in alternative dispute resolution mechanisms, such as mediation, outside traditional court proceedings.
Justice Baffoe-Bonnie highlighted that the successful implementation of ADR depends heavily on the support of judges, magistrates, and all stakeholders, stressing that leadership and confidence from the judiciary are essential for fostering effective ADR processes. He encouraged judicial service staff to actively participate in enhancing the efficiency and reach of ADR.
“This year’s ADR Week presents a unique opportunity to deepen public understanding of alternative dispute resolution, promote active participation, and strengthen the role of ADR in ensuring peaceful resolution of conflicts,” he said.
Echoing these sentiments, Mr Joseph Addae Akwaboa noted that while traditional courts remain central to justice delivery, ADR offers a complementary and effective pathway. He stressed that the adoption of technology in ADR could reduce delays, lower litigation costs, and bolster public confidence in the judicial system.
“Technology is transforming every sector of human life,” Mr Akwaboa said. “It is imperative that our justice system leverages innovations to meet public expectations and make dispute resolution faster, fairer, and more accessible.”
The 2026 ADR Week in Sunyani underscores a growing commitment within Ghana’s judiciary to combine traditional dispute resolution methods with modern technological tools, reinforcing the country’s vision for a more responsive and inclusive justice system.
