Judiciary Uganda

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This evening, HW Jessica Chemeri, Deputy Registrar of the Commercial Division, together with HW Daniel Lubowa, Assistant Registrar Mediation, were hosted on Voice of Africa where they shared updates on the ongoing Mediation Fortnight at the Commercial Court. During the radio talk show, the two Judicial Officers highlighted the importance of mediation in resolving commercial disputes quickly, amicably and cost-effectively, while also helping businesses preserve relationships and unlock capital tied up in litigation. They also encouraged litigants, advocates, financial institutions and the business community to embrace Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) as an efficient pathway to justice and economic growth

The Chief Registrar, HW Agnes Alum, has pledged to strengthen monitoring, training and accountability in the implementation of State Funded Legal Representation across the country. HW Alum made the remarks this afternoon while chairing the Quarter Four FY 2025/2026 meeting of the State Funded Legal Representation Implementation Committee at the Supreme Court Building in Kampala. The meeting marked her maiden sitting as Chairperson of the Committee since assuming office as Chief Registrar. In her remarks, HW Alum thanked members for honouring the invitation and keeping time, noting that although she had previously served on the Committee as Registrar for Magistrates Affairs and Data Management, this was her first time chairing the meeting as Chief Registrar. She commended the outgoing Chairperson for steering the Committee and appreciated members for their contribution towards cleaning up and consolidating the Roll of State Funded Advocates. She also applauded the Secretariat, headed by the Registrar High Court, for compiling the information that facilitated the issuance of the Roll on April 24, 2026. The Chief Registrar reminded members that the Committee derives its mandate from the Judicature (Legal Representation at the Expense of the State) Rules, 2022, which seek to streamline the management of state funded legal representation in the administration of justice. She emphasized the need for the Committee to move beyond desk monitoring and undertake field visits to assess implementation on the ground. “The last field monitoring exercise was conducted in September 2024. We need to resume these engagements and assess how the programme is being implemented across the country,” she noted. HW Alum further stressed the importance of extending oversight beyond advocates appearing before the High Court to include those handling matters before Chief Magistrates’ Courts in order to ensure a more holistic assessment of the programme. On stakeholder capacity building, the Chief Registrar observed that the last training sessions for stakeholders were conducted in 2023 and called for more regular engagements. She proposed collaboration with the Judicial Training Institute (JTI) to facilitate continuous training for advocates, registrars and chief magistrates involved in the implementation of state funded legal representation. The Chief Registrar also directed the Secretariat to circulate the Committee work plan by the close of the week to guide members as the current financial year comes to an end and preparations begin for FY 2026/2027. “As a new Chair to this Committee, I undertake to be available and diligent to steer the Committee forward from now on,” HW Alum said. Members of the Committee congratulated HW Alum upon her appointment as Chief Registrar and welcomed her leadership, expressing confidence in achieving improved results under her stewardship. During deliberations on matters arising from the Roll of State Funded Advocates, members observed that the Roll had largely been finalized in principle and should now be widely circulated to stakeholders for feedback before final adjustments are made. As part of the resolutions reached, the Committee proposed the establishment of a Monitoring Sub-Committee to conduct field visits, gather information and develop tools to support implementation. Members also agreed that audit and monitoring activities should be undertaken in the next quarter, particularly in August, and resolved to engage the Monitoring and Evaluation Secretariat to develop a specialized monitoring tool tailored to the Committee’s work

The Court of Appeal has today commenced a two-day civil appeals session in Jinja, during which a total of 27 cases are scheduled to be heard. The session started today, and will conclude tomorrow, 26th May 2026. A panel of three Justices comprising Justice Geoffrey Kiryabwire, Lady Justice Irene Mulyagonja, and Justice Dr. Asa Mugenyi, is presiding over the session. The cause list signed by HW Natukunda Janeva (Deputy Registrar Court of Appeal), matters scheduled for hearing span a wide range of civil disputes. These include land and property related cases, claims for damages, divorce matters, evaluation of evidence, breach of the right to a fair hearing, loan related disputes, recovery of money, and breach of contract, among others. The session was officially opened by Justice Kiryabwire. Present were judicial officers in different capacities, including Justice Lawrence Gidudu (Head Jinja High Court Circuit), Lady Justice Joanita Gertrude Bushara (Resident Judge Jinja), HW Natukunda Janeva, HW Mukanza Robert (Deputy Registrar Jinja High Court), and Magistrates Grade I attached to the Court of Appeal and under the Jinja High Court Circuit, among others. Also in attendance were various stakeholders, including advocates, representatives from the Uganda Prisons Service, Uganda Police Force, Attorney General’s Chambers, and religious leaders, among others. The session forms part of the Court’s ongoing efforts to enhance access to justice, reduce case backlog, and extend appellate services closer to the people. Appellants and their legal representatives were present in court

Happening Now: HW Faisal Mulalira, Deputy Registrar of Wakiso High Court Circuit, together with HW Naome Sikhoya, Chief Magistrate Wakiso are live on 88.8 CBS FM sensitizing listeners about tomorrow’s first Wakiso High Court Court Open Day. The Open Day, which will be presided over by the Chief Justice, Justice Dr. Flavian Zeija, is aimed at taking justice services closer to the people through public engagement, sensitization on court processes and showcasing Judiciary innovations intended to improve access to justice and service delivery. It is also a day to receive feedback from court users and justice seekers on court services. Listeners are being encouraged to attend and learn more about the services offered by the Court under the theme, “Justice that Listens, Serves and Resolves.” Follow the conversation on the link below; radio.co.ug/cbs-buganda-fm/

Tomorrow 👇

The first sitting of the 12th Parliament has commenced at Kololo Ceremonial Grounds with the Chief Justice, Justice Dr Flavian Zeija presiding over the proceedings. #12thParliamentStarts #PlenaryUg

The International Association of Women Judges Uganda Chapter (IAWJ-UC) yesterday held a colourful handover ceremony at the Supreme Court Building Conference Hall, marking a significant moment of transition and renewed commitment to advancing justice and gender equity in Uganda. The ceremony saw Lady Justice Olive Kazaarwe Mukwaya officially assume office as President of IAWJ-UC, taking over from Lady Justice Elizabeth Jane Alividza in a ceremony characterised by celebration, mentorship, gratitude and inspiration. Speaking at the ceremony, the Principal Judge and Patron of IAWJ-UC, Lady Justice Jane Frances Abodo, described the occasion as “a beautiful day,” humorously noting that she had not expected to dance so early on a Saturday morning. She paid special tribute to the mentees present, emphasizing that mentorship remains central to the Association’s mission and that it is critical in strengthening institutions in administration of justice. “If we want strong institutions like the Judiciary, the Uganda Law Society, the Office of the DPP and civil society, we must mentor the young people because the law, by its nature, is a noble profession,” she said. The Principal Judge observed that legal professionals often shoulder the burden of helping others navigate emotional pain while dealing with their own personal challenges, underscoring the importance of strong mentorship structures within the legal profession. Lady Justice Abodo applauded the outgoing Executive for laying a strong foundation for the Association and noted the remarkable increase in the number of women joining the legal profession compared to earlier years when law classes at the Law Development Centre were significantly smaller. She pledged the Judiciary’s continued support to IAWJ-UC and encouraged members to think beyond Uganda in their work and impact, while also emphasizing the importance of male allies in advancing gender equality. Addressing women in leadership, the Principal Judge noted that many women still struggle with inferiority complexes in leadership spaces and commended the Association for challenging stereotypes that place certain offices and responsibilities along gender lines. “Women are capable of achieving just as much,” she affirmed. She concluded by wishing the incoming President, Lady Justice Olive Kazaarwe Mukwaya, God’s abundant blessings and success during her three-year tenure. In her remarks, the new president, Lady Justice Kazaarwe commended the Patron of the Association for her timekeeping and presence at the ceremony, noting that the day was not merely for speeches, but for honouring the outgoing leadership and celebrating the mentorship and steady guidance that had shaped the Association over the years. “This is not a day for speaking; it is a day for honouring,” she remarked, paying tribute to President Emeritus Lady Justice Alividza for her dedicated service and leadership. In an emotional and reflective address, President Emeritus thanked the Principal for accepting to be the Patron of the Association. She shared her personal journey from her early days at FIDA Uganda in her twenties to joining the Judiciary in the 1990s, where she served at Buganda Road Court handling capital offences. She recalled how that role brought her into close interaction with senior female judicial officers who mentored and guided her. Lady Justice Alividza also fondly recalled attending an international conference in Manila, Philippines, in 1994/1995 while still a Magistrate Grade One, an experience she described as transformative and life-changing. She narrated how the late Maria Ssali supported her with USD 1,000 towards the trip while the Judiciary provided the balance, enabling her to join a global network of women judges

The Principal Judge, Lady Justice Jane Frances Abodo, yesterday chaired another preparatory meeting ahead of Uganda’s participation in the 35th Session of the Commission on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice (CCPCJ), scheduled to take place from June 1 to 5, 2026, in Vienna, Austria. The meeting, held at the Supreme Court Building in Kampala, brought together representatives from key justice administration institutions to review Uganda’s level of preparedness for the international conference. In her opening remarks, Lady Justice Abodo commended the institutions represented for their continued commitment as preparations for the session gain momentum. She noted that although the Judiciary would not physically attend the conference, the participating institutions would adequately represent the country and advance Uganda’s position during the session. Lady Justice Abodo further announced that the Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions, Mr. John Baptist Asiimwe, had been appointed Head of Delegation to lead the Ugandan team to Vienna. “I’ve asked the Deputy DPP, Mr. John Baptist Asiimwe, to become the Head of Delegation to lead this team to Vienna for the five days, represent Uganda at the UN Congress, and bring everybody back safely,” she said. The Principal Judge explained that the meeting was convened to review three draft statements prepared for presentation during the session. These include a general country statement and two thematic statements focusing on areas of interest to Uganda. Members also received updates on the level of preparedness from the various participating teams. As preparations enter the final phase, Lady Justice Abodo proposed that future engagements be conducted virtually to allow for quicker and more frequent coordination. She said the Head of Delegation would now take charge of convening subsequent meetings, while she would continue participating as a member of the team. The meeting was attended by representatives from the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, forensic experts, and other stakeholders in the justice sector. The 35th Session of the Commission on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice is expected to provide a platform for member states to discuss global priorities in crime prevention, criminal justice, and international cooperation

Earlier today, the Judiciary, through the Judicial Training Institute (JTI), hosted the Pre-Fortnight Settlement Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Users’ Roundtable for the Land Division of the High Court at the Supreme Court Conference Hall in Kampala. The Roundtable brought together actors in land justice administration, including Judges of the Land Division, Registrars, Mediators, Advocates and officials from the Ministry of Lands, Housing and Urban Development, among others. The engagement was officially opened by the Principal Judge, Lady Justice Jane Frances Abodo, who emphasized the importance of collaboration and proactive case management in strengthening mediation and improving access to justice in land disputes. In her remarks, the Principal Judge noted that the roundtable was a strategic preparation for the upcoming Settlement Fortnight and an opportunity for justice actors to assess the current state of land disputes, identify mediation opportunities, and strengthen partnerships aimed at delivering faster and more meaningful justice. She highlighted the growing importance of Alternative Dispute Resolution, particularly mediation, in resolving land disputes. The Principal Judge observed that many such cases involve family relationships, community ties, historical claims, and economic livelihoods which are often better suited for amicable settlement rather than prolonged adversarial litigation. Lady Justice Abodo encouraged Judges, Mediators, and Counsel to proactively identify suitable cases for mediation at the earliest possible stage and urged stakeholders to embrace reconciliation and win-win outcomes. The Principal Judge further stressed the need for consistency and predictability in land jurisprudence, especially in recurring issues such as spousal consent, fraudulent transfers, customary land rights, registration disputes, and eviction procedures, saying consistent application of the law builds public confidence and reduces unnecessary litigation. She also commended Ms Barbara Kilei, Country Manager of the International Development Law Organization (IDLO), for the organisation’s continued support to the Judiciary and the wider justice sector, particularly its commitment towards supporting mediation processes during the forthcoming Settlement Fortnight. Representing the Chairperson of the JTI Governing Council, Mr. George Omunyokol, a member of the Governing Council, reaffirmed the Institute’s commitment to strengthening judicial capacity and promoting ADR as a key component of access to justice. He noted that land disputes remain among the most sensitive and complex disputes in society, often affecting families, livelihoods, investments, and social stability, and therefore require approaches that are not only legally sound but also restorative and practical. He particularly applauded the inclusion of Judges and Advocates in the same engagement, noting that effective mediation and settlement processes require close collaboration between the Bench and the Bar. The Head of the Land Division, Lady Justice Damalie Lwanga, presented the state of land disputes within the Division and their readiness for the forthcoming Settlement Fortnight scheduled to take place from 22nd June to 3rd July 2026. She revealed that the Division currently handles land disputes arising from Kampala District and parts of Wakiso District. Adding that despite the operationalisation of the Entebbe and Wakiso High Court Circuits, the Division continues to experience a significant workload. According to the statistics presented, the Division carried forward 8,930 land matters from the previous financial year, while 3,692 new matters have since been registered during the current financial year 2025/2026. Of these, 655 cases were referred to mediation

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I was enthused hosting Chief Justice Flavian Zeija and the distinguished delegation from the Judiciary of Uganda during their benchmarking visit to the Employment and Labour Relations Court of Kenya. Our engagement reaffirmed the strong bonds between the Judiciaries of Kenya and Uganda, founded on shared values of justice, constitutionalism, and the rule of law. We exchanged valuable insights on judicial reforms, labour justice, technology integration, and improving access to justice for our people. I commend the Judiciary of Uganda for its commitment to strengthening labour justice systems and fostering judicial transformation. As sister institutions, we remain committed to deepening regional collaboration, mutual learning, and professional cooperation in the service of justice.

📌 Notice To The Public 📌

Happening Now: The Judiciary is today commissioning Budaka Chief Magistrate’s Court, a key milestone in taking justice services closer to the people and improving service delivery in the region. The commissioning ceremony is being officiated by the Principal Judge, Lady Justice Jane Frances Abodo, under the theme, “Justice that Listens, Serves and Resolves.” Upon arrival at the court premises, the Principal Judge reviewed a guard of honour before being formally received by judicial officers led by the Head of Mbale High Court Circuit, Justice Lubega Farouq. Also present; the Judiciary Public Relations Officer, HW James Ereemye Jumire Mawanda; Deputy Registrar of Mbale High Court, HW Fred Waninda; Chief Magistrate HW Lydia Kambedha, who oversees Budaka Chief Magistrate’s Court; Magistrates Grade One HW Martin Shirara and HW Karim Kyembe; and the Personal Assistant to the Principal Judge, HW Edger Nyakairu, among other officials. As part of the ceremony, Lady Justice Abodo unveiled a commemorative plaque to mark the official opening of the court and planted a “Tree of Justice” within the court premises, symbolising the Judiciary’s commitment to fairness, accessibility, and people-centred justice. The Principal Judge also toured the court facility alongside Mr. Samuel Natudde Mpyangu, Senior Regional Executive Engineer, representing the Engineering and Technical Services Department. Today’s programme is being coordinated by the Judiciary Public Relations Officer, HW James Ereemye Jumire Mawanda, together with Communications Officer Deo Akugizibwe. Earlier in the day, justice sector stakeholders held a community sensitisation engagement to educate members of the public on court services and access to justice

The Masaka High Court and Chief Magistrates Court team yesterday held a farewell and welcome dinner to celebrate staff who have been transferred from and to Masaka during the 2025/2026 period, as well as staff born in the months of April and May. The dinner was attended by the Head of Circuit, Lady Justice Victoria N.N. Katamba; the Resident Judge, Resident Judge, Lady Justice Fatuma Nanziri Bwanika; the Visiting Judge, Justice Charles Kasibayo; the Deputy Registrar, HW Loe Karungi; the Chief Magistrate, HW Albert Asiimwe; Magistrates; court staff; and representatives from the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions and Justice Centres Masaka. During the event, appreciation award plaques and other gifts were presented to departing staff in recognition of their service, while newly posted staff were warmly welcomed and celebrated. Masaka Court continues to hold such engagements as part of efforts to strengthen team spirit, boost staff morale, bridge the gap between judicial officers and administrative staff, and ultimately foster better service delivery

The Chief Justice Dr Flavian Zeija will on the 26th of May 2026 preside over Wakiso High Court Open Day

All Set: All is set for the commissioning of the Budaka Chief Magistrate’s Court building, which will be presided over by the Principal Judge, Lady Justice Jane Frances Abodo. The commissioning will be held under the theme, “Justice that Listens, Serves and Resolves,” highlighting the Judiciary’s commitment to taking justice services closer to the people and strengthening timely, efficient, and people-centred justice delivery

Ongoing: HW Zulaika Nanteza is live on Metro FM 90.8 sensitizing listeners on the upcoming Court of Appeal Appellate Mediation Fortnight, scheduled to take place from June 1 to 16, 2026. The talk show is aimed at creating public awareness about appellate mediation as one of the Judiciary’s key access to justice initiatives designed to promote timely, cost-effective, and amicable resolution of disputes at the appellate level. Through the talk show, listeners are being encouraged to embrace mediation as an alternative pathway for resolving disputes, reducing case backlog, saving time and costs, and promoting harmony among parties

Earlier today, judicial officers under the Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Registry conducted a public awareness and sensitisation campaign aimed at informing the public about the ongoing Mediation Settlement Fortnight at the Commercial Court. The team engaged members of the public across Kampala City, especially in markets, taxi parks, shopping centres, and other busy public spaces about the fortnight, and also distributed Information, Education and Communication (IEC) materials on Mediation, the Small Claims Procedure, Bail Refunds, Court Fees, among other court initiatives. The exercise was led by HW Justine Atukwasa Registrar ADR Registry, HW Godfrey Kaweesa, Deputy Registrar ADR, and HW Daniel Lubowa, Assistant Registrar Mediation, with support from Mr. Emma Akatwijuka, court clerk. The Mediation Settlement Fortnight commenced on 18th May 2026 and will run until 29th May 2026

Ongoing: A radio talk show is underway on Radio Bugwere 97.2 FM as part of the public sensitization activities ahead of the commissioning of Budaka Chief Magistrates Court Building. The panelists include the Judiciary Public Relations Officer, HW James Ereemye Jumire Mawanda, who is appearing alongside HW Lydia Kambedha, Chief Magistrate of Pallisa who is also caretaking Budaka CM Court, and HW Martin Shirara Walutsyo, Magistrate at Budaka Court, to sensitize the public on access to justice initiatives being implemented by the Judiciary. The engagement is aimed at creating awareness about Judiciary services, court processes, and innovations designed to improve service delivery and bring justice closer to court users and the wider community. The sensitization drive comes ahead of tomorrow’s commissioning of the Budaka Court Building, which will be presided over by the Principal Judge, Lady Justice Jane Frances Abodo, at the Court premises