ALP Dispute Settlement Hub (DSH)

Join the “CAF Boardroom Champion” Debate hosted by ALP Dispute Settlement Hub this Thursday, 26th March 2026 from 4–6PM (Online). Top minds. Big conversations. Game-changing insights.

@AlpDisputeHub @alpeastafrica @ALPPSL @ALPNigeria @FGimara Happening this Thursday

#GumzoLaADR2026 has been a powerful convergence of minds shaping the future of dispute resolution in Africa. From mediation and AJS to domestic & international arbitration, the conversations have focused on access to justice, capacity building, innovation, and collaboration. The message is clear: ADR is not the alternative, it is the future.

The Principal Judge, Lady Justice Jane Frances Abodo, yesterday officially closed the five-day GUMZO LA Alternative Dispute Resolution Conference at Mestil Hotel and Residences in Kampala, bringing to a close a week-long engagement on the future of dispute resolution in Africa. The conference attracted a diverse range of participants from the Judiciary, arbitration institutions, private legal practice, corporate legal departments, and regional arbitration centres. Deputy Chief Justice Emeritus, Justice Steven Kavuma, was also present. In her closing remarks, Lady Justice Abodo thanked participants for their active engagement throughout the Conference, describing the gathering as a transformative dialogue that had drawn together ideas from across Africa and beyond to reshape the future of justice. She said the conference had lived up to its name, Gumzo, meaning dialogue, by creating a platform for collaboration among judicial officers, practitioners, academics, and policy actors to address the evolving justice needs of the continent. Reflecting on the deliberations, the Principal Judge noted that the Conference had covered key areas including Mediation, Alternative Justice Systems, construction dispute adjudication, domestic arbitration, and international arbitration. She said the discussions had underscored the growing importance of ADR in reducing case backlog, promoting economic integration, and delivering culturally responsive justice. Lady Justice Abodo commended the Judicial Training Institute, the ADR Registry, and the ALP Dispute Settlement Hub for the meticulous planning and coordination that ensured a successful conference blending policy dialogue with practical learning. Citing a Karamajong proverb that says, “When people gather under a tree to solve a conflict, the conflict loses its strength,” she emphasized that dialogue remains at the heart of dispute resolution and reaffirmed that ADR is the future of justice delivery in Africa. The Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, Hon. Norbert Mao, welcomed the resolutions emerging from the conference and pledged the Ministry’s support in implementing them in collaboration with the Judiciary. He announced that the Ministry would strengthen the Centre for Arbitration and Dispute Resolution, noting that recruitment processes would be concluded before the end of the month. He also revealed that members of the National ADR Advisory Committee would soon be announced to guide policy implementation. Hon. Mao emphasized that ADR is deeply rooted in African traditions and should not be regarded as a foreign concept. He observed that African justice systems have historically emphasized dispute avoidance, reconciliation, inclusiveness, consensus-building, and matching disputes to the most appropriate resolution process. He urged Africans to reclaim confidence in indigenous justice approaches, arguing that ADR should be understood not only as Alternative Dispute Resolution, but also as African Dispute Resolution and Appropriate Dispute Resolution. Remarks on behalf of the Executive Director of the Judicial Training Institute were delivered by HW Lillian Bucyana, Ag. Registrar in charge of JTI, who thanked participants and partners for their contribution to the success of the Conference. She said ADR remains an indispensable component of modern justice systems because of its ability to promote efficiency, restore relationships, and expand access to justice. HW Bucyana reaffirmed JTI’s commitment to strengthening training for judicial officers and justice sector actors, particularly in mediation, arbitration, and Alternative Justice Systems. She noted that the institute would continue working with courts, mediators, academia, and development partners to build the institutional capacity needed to effectively integrate ADR into justice delivery

Closing Reflections ~ Principal Judge of Uganda Hon. Lady Justice Jane Frances Abodo Addressing participants at #GumzoLaADR2026, the Principal Judge commends the strong engagement throughout the week, noting that the conference brings together judges, practitioners, policymakers, and experts from across Africa and beyond to shape the future of dispute resolution on the continent. She highlights discussions ranging from justice system workflows and traditional justice mechanisms to construction contracts, commercial arbitration, and the role of AI in dispute resolution, emphasizing how Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) is helping to reduce the cost of transactions, promote economic integration, and deliver culturally responsive justice. Justice Abodo underscores the importance of institutional collaboration, recognizing the role of the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs Uganda, the African Continental Free Trade Area framework, and international partners such as International Development Law Organization in strengthening Africa’s justice systems. “As we conclude this important gathering, we must carry forward the lessons of ethical, efficient, and inclusive ADR systems, strengthen institutional partnerships, and integrate technology and policy frameworks to position Africa as a premier hub for international arbitration and dispute resolution.” @JudiciaryUG

As #GumzoLaADR2026 comes to a close, we extend our heartfelt thanks to all participants, speakers, judges, practitioners, policymakers, and partners who have been part of this remarkable journey from Day 1 to the final session. Your ideas, engagement, and commitment have shaped powerful conversations on ADR, justice reform, institutional collaboration, and Africa’s role in global dispute resolution. Together, we have taken important steps toward building stronger, more innovative justice systems across the continent.|| @JudiciaryUG

We have come to the close of Day 5 of Gumzo La ADR 2026. Today’s discussions covered: •Navigating Emerging Disputes in the Energy Sector (hosted by Women in Arbitration) •Building Connections: Fostering African Integration through Commercial Arbitration •From Disputes to Integration: AfCFTA Disputes Framework as a Catalyst for Resolving Trade Disputes and Boosting Intra-African Trade •Looking into the Future: Effective Institutional Collaboration as a Mechanism for Enhancing the African Arbitration Opportunity Speakers emphasized that Africa has the legal frameworks, institutions, and talent to grow arbitration. To fully realize this potential, the continent needs stronger institutional collaboration, skilled and accredited practitioners, responsible adoption of AI and technology, targeted solutions for sector specific disputes, joint research and knowledge sharing, and trust building ensuring that more disputes are resolved in Africa rather than abroad. #GumzoLaADR2026

Session 4 Panel Round Up at #GumzoLaDRA2026 Key insights from the discussion on international arbitration: • Draft clear, enforceable arbitration clauses • Use technology & AI strategically to improve efficiency • Understand the importance of the seat of arbitration & judicial supervision • Ensure procedural discipline to safeguard enforceable awards Arbitration remains a consensual, rules-based system requiring clarity, strategy, and adaptability.

Key recommendations from Gumzo La ADR 2026: 1. Institutionalize ADR across all justice actors & contracts 2. Modernize legal and procedural frameworks for mediation, Alternative Justice System (AJS) & arbitration 3. Structured land & construction dispute management 4. Strengthen professional capacity, culture, inclusion and ethics for all practitioners 5. Embed governance & performance management that makes ADR durable. #GumzoLaADR2026

Conference Resolutions – #GumzoLaADR2026 Participants called for stronger institutional collaboration, modernized communication systems, and ethical AI integration within ADR frameworks. Key priorities include strengthening national ADR policies within justice systems, investing in capacity building and specialized ADR training, promoting a settlement-oriented mediation culture, safeguarding constitutional and human rights standards, and enhancing professional ethics and diversity in tribunals. The conference also emphasized structured dispute management, better coordination among institutions, data-driven monitoring of dispute resolution outcomes, and stronger engagement between government, practitioners, and regional bodies to position Africa as a credible and efficient hub for dispute resolution as presented by Dr Gladys

Closing Remarks ~ Hon (@norbertmao) at #GumzoLaADR2026 “As we conclude this very fruitful week, it is clear that the convening power of Gumzo has brought together some of the most important voices in dispute resolution across Africa. But this is only the beginning.” Hon. Mao welcomes the conference resolutions and reaffirmed the Government of Uganda’s commitment to strengthening Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) systems. He announces that before the end of the month, the National ADR Advisory Committee will be constituted to guide the Ministry in advancing ADR policy, institutional collaboration, and justice sector reforms. He also emphasizes the importance of transparency, merit, and professional integrity in legal and arbitration processes, noting that Uganda must continue building credible, efficient, and trusted dispute resolution institutions. Reflecting on the broader vision for the continent, Hon. Mao encourages greater confidence in Africa’s capacity to resolve its own disputes, stating that ADR should not only mean Alternative Dispute Resolution—but also African Dispute Resolution and Appropriate Dispute Resolution. The closing remarks reaffirm a shared commitment among practitioners, policymakers, and institutions to strengthen Africa’s role as a global hub for arbitration, mediation, and innovative dispute resolution mechanisms.

Ms. Lilian Kiiza, FCIArb, Managing Partner at Kiiza & Kwanza Advocates, emphasizes the critical importance of drafting robust arbitration clauses. She highlights key considerations: •Clearly define the scope of disputes to be arbitrated, including breach, termination, validity, and IP matters. •Specify the seat of arbitration, ensuring it is arbitration-friendly and enforceable under local laws. •Determine the number and appointment of arbitrators, solo or tribunal, to ensure efficiency and expertise. •Use precise and unambiguous language, including terms like shall or will, to avoid disputes over interpretation. •Plan for the applicable arbitration rules, such as ICC, UNCITRAL, or local regulations. •Include provisions for finality and binding nature of awards, reinforcing enforceability. •Consider technology-driven contracts, smart contracts, AI, web assets, and potential geopolitical or regulatory impacts. Ms. Kiiza stresses that well-drafted clauses are not just formalities, they prevent disputes, streamline resolution, and protect parties’ interests, making arbitration more effective and predictable. #GumzoLaADR2026|| @JudiciaryUG

Session 4 | Enforcement of Arbitral Awards Mr. David Kaggwa, FCIArb, Chairman of CIArb Uganda, shared invaluable insights on arbitral award selection and enforcement, highlighting practical tips for practitioners: •Responding to arbitration invitations: Always engage thoughtfully. Ignoring a request may place you outside the jurisdiction, affecting your rights. •Multi-professional tribunals: For complex disputes (e.g., construction or technical matters), consider panels including lawyers, engineers, and other experts to ensure a comprehensive award. •Drafting final awards: Ensure awards are valid, binding, and final. Procedural directions or orders should be attached as appendices to record parties’ agreements and safeguard enforceability. •Domestic vs. foreign awards: Distinguish clearly between awards made in Uganda (domestic) and those from New York Convention countries (foreign). Different rules apply under Section 34 of the Arbitration and Conciliation Act vs. the New York Convention. •Enforcement process: Foreign awards can be enforced in Uganda if the country is a signatory to the New York Convention, subject to recognition procedures. Grounds for setting aside are similar but may differ in scope. •Key principle: Arbitration is consensual, parties largely agree on the process. Your responsibility as an arbitrator is to ensure clarity, fairness, and enforceability in every award. Mr. Kaggwa stressed that knowing the distinction, engaging properly, and planning procedural orders carefully are critical steps in ensuring awards are enforceable both locally and internationally. #GumzoLaADR2026

Session 4 | Enforcement and Judicial Supervision in International Arbitration Mr. Patson W. Arinaitwe, FCIArb, Partner at Signum Advocates and Member of the International Court of Arbitration, shared critical insights on the judicial oversight and enforceability of arbitral awards, including those involving emerging technologies like AI: •The importance of the seat of arbitration: The jurisdiction determines which courts can recognize or set aside an award. Choosing an arbitration-friendly seat is crucial for enforceability. •Judicial review of tribunals: Courts are not meant to assess whether a tribunal’s decision is right or wrong but ensure procedural compliance and mandate. Understanding this distinction is key. •Strategic considerations in set-aside applications: Not every challenge is about correctness; some are strategic. Parties must evaluate whether pursuing a set-aside will realistically succeed. •AI in arbitration: Using AI raises questions on due process and enforceability. Challenges to AI-assisted awards must be grounded in established arbitration law (e.g., Article 5 or Article 34 frameworks). •Institutional practices: Institutions like ICC and other arbitration bodies provide structured guidance to manage enforcement, AI use, and procedural legitimacy. Mr. Arinaitwe emphasized that arbitration remains a consensual, rules-based system, but careful attention to judicial supervision, AI use, and procedural strategy is critical to ensure enforceable and effective outcomes. #GumzoLaADR2026 || @JudiciaryUG

Next up at #GumzoLaADR2026:Panel Session focused on “Looking into the Future: Effective Institutional Collaboration as a Mechanism for Enhancing the African Arbitration Opportunity” Moderated by @FGimara

Panel Alert: Prof. Kenneth Wyne Mutuma C.Arb, FCIArb, Chairman of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators Kenya Branch, takes the stage to discuss “Looking into the Future: Effective Institutional Collaboration as a Mechanism for Enhancing the African Arbitration Opportunity.” He emphasizes the critical need for harmonized policies, strong institutions, and cross-border collaboration to address fragmentation in Africa’s arbitration landscape. By leveraging regional experiences, shared expertise, and sustainable frameworks, Africa can position itself as a hub for fair, efficient, and credible dispute resolution. “Collaboration is not optional, it is the key to unlocking the full potential of arbitration on the continent,” says Prof. Mutuma, highlighting how coordinated efforts can attract investment, streamline complex disputes, and build a legacy of trusted arbitration systems. #GumzoLaADR2026 || @JudiciaryUG

Panel Insight: Mr. Victor Mugabe, Secretary General of the Kigali International Arbitration Centre, highlights the critical role of institutional collaboration in advancing Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Africa. He notes that while AI research is largely driven by non-African institutions, African countries are still sending over 80% of international arbitration disputes to foreign jurisdictions like Paris, London, Singapore, and Hong Kong, often under foreign laws. “Disputes involving African parties should be resolved within Africa,” Mugabe emphasizes, pointing to MOUs signed since 2024 in Nairobi with European AI institutions as a model for collaboration, knowledge transfer, and building local expertise. The path forward, he says, is to leverage African arbitration centers, strengthen reputations, and track records, ensuring the continent becomes a trusted hub for AI-driven dispute resolution while keeping African disputes on African soil. #GumzoLaADR2026|| @JudiciaryUG

Ms. Norah Kaggwa, Registrar @ICAMEK1 , challenges African professionals: “The trajectory of arbitration starts with us. We can’t keep sending disputes to Paris, London, or Geneva and expect change. If we want African arbitration to thrive, we must strengthen local institutions, rethink academic practices, and build real capacity.” #GumzoLaADR2026 || @JudiciaryUG

The discussion at #GumzoLaADR2026 is getting even more engaging as the audience weighs in with thoughtful questions and insights on institutional collaboration, the future of African arbitration, and the role of technology and AI in dispute resolution

At a discussion on African arbitration, it was said that while Africa has the talent and legal frameworks, most disputes still go abroad. Stronger collaboration, accredited practitioners, and shared resources can help resolve more disputes in Africa. #GumzoLaADR2026