While improving efficiency is important, it isn’t the end goal. What’s being called for now is a fundamental change in how the system functions by reconsidering longstanding routines, questioning default practices, and imagining new ways for courts to respond to GBVF with urgency, care, and clarity.

At the heart of this renewed energy is an intelligently playful but meaningful concept: the SMURF goal. A strategic tool for making the justice system more responsive, focused, and dynamic in short bursts of action – which can in the end be sustained. So, what is a ‘SMURF’ goal? Strategic, Measurable, Unreasonable, Results-oriented, Fast.

The emphasis on unreasonable is deliberate. It signals a break from cautious, incremental thinking. These goals are intended to push teams to break down silos, find new ways of working, and take real steps that shift the lived experience of survivors who often encounter delay, silence, or bureaucracy when seeking help.

From the early goals emerging across Limpopo, a number of key themes have surfaced. Let’s take a look.

Case Backlog Reduction

Several courts are focusing on longstanding cases that have remained unresolved for months. These cases may have often stalled due to delays in forensic processing, incomplete investigations or administrative gaps. Teams are identifying these files and committing to firm closure.

Re-engaging Withdrawn cases

Some goals are centred on reviewing GBVF cases that were withdrawn or struck off the roll. This may have been due to absent witnesses, complainant fatigue, or investigative setbacks. Instead of archiving these cases, these teams are reaching into the past to understand what went wrong and exploring ways to recover what may still be possible. That includes tracing victims, reopening dockets, and closing procedural loops that were left incomplete. In the past, many teams have worked closely with traditional councils as victims will take their cases here as ‘family’ matters, where as a GBV case, it should be delt with in the justice system.

Shortening Turnaround Times

Several teams are focusing on how long it takes to finalise a GBVF case. By identifying where time is lost – whether in delays in receiving medical reports, DNA evidence, court scheduling clashes, or slow case handovers – these teams are identifying ways to reduce the waiting period. For survivors, time matters. A delayed judgment can mean prolonged vulnerability and in some cases, re-traumatisation.

Using Technology to Improve Access

Technology is emerging as a key enabler. Some teams are introducing or expanding virtual hearings, remote witness testimony, and digital evidence submissions. These interventions are especially valuable in rural areas, where distance and travel costs can make attending court difficult. They also create safer spaces for survivors who may not feel ready to face perpetrators in person.

Strengthening Internal Processes

Other teams are turning their attention inward, reviewing how court personnel, prosecutors and investigators work together. Sometimes the most meaningful changes come from improving everyday systems such as tightening communication, clarifying roles or resolving routine bottlenecks that affect how quickly and compassionately a case can be handled.

Collaborative Outreach

Some courts are planning public-facing actions in partnership with other stakeholders, including NGOs, police services, traditional councils and health professionals. These may align with commemorative dates like Youth Day, Mandela Day or Women’s Day, but they’re also being used to build lasting relationships, improve referral pathways, and signal that the justice system is listening.

The Limpopo courts have already built a reputation for doing this work differently. Now, the invitation from Wessels is to go further by making bold and clear choices that have an impact on the outcomes on the ground.

The SMURF approach pushes teams to think bigger. Move faster. And to never forget that behind every court file is someone waiting for the system to respond.

Let’s SMURF it!