SP Kinobe

We believe we can effectively complete great tasks together #BuildingBridges with @JCSUganda

@Lcmuha 😓🙆🙆‍♀️🤦🏻‍♀️🤦🏻‍♀️🤦🏻‍♀️ congratulations 🎊

@SPKinobe2018 🤣🤣

Dead😂😂😂😂😂

@Lcmuha Zabike😂😂😂😂💥🗯❤️‍🔥❤️‍🔥❤️‍🔥

@SPKinobe2018 Haha it’s Spain for me, 2-1. May the best team win.

@Lcmuha Tight one. But I think Argentina.

@SPKinobe2018 Your prediction tonight? Spain 🇪🇸 vs Argentina 🇦🇷

@Lcmuha 😂😂😂😂😂😂uhmmmm

@SPKinobe2018 Hahaha same beef with United and Arsenal, it will always stand 🤣

Bu iki dev kaplumbağa 120 yıldan fazla süredir birbirleriyle kavga ediyor.Hayvanat bahçesine göre, bir kaplumbağa diğerinin yemeğini 120 yıl önce çalmış ve o günden beri düşman olmuşlar.

Ongoing: The Electronic Court Case Management Information System (ECCMIS) Technical Committee has commenced a two-day training for Judicial Officers drawn from Wakiso Chief Magistrate’s Court, one of the Cluster 9 courts scheduled for the next phase of ECCMIS implementation. The training is taking place at Court 2 of the Supreme Court in Kampala. The programme is aimed at equipping participants with practical skills to effectively use the Electronic Court Case Management Information System ahead of its roll-out and go-live at their respective courts. It also serves as a refresher for judicial officers who had previously undergone similar training. Opening the training, the Registrar Civil Division, HW Simon Kintu Zirintusa, described the programme as the beginning of an important journey towards strengthening digital competence and enhancing the effective use of ECCMIS across the Judiciary. He said the training reflects the Judiciary’s continued commitment to improving efficiency, accuracy and transparency in court operations through digital case management. HW Zirintusa thanked participants for dedicating their time to the training, noting that their attendance demonstrated a commitment to both personal and professional growth. He observed that the Judiciary recognises the critical role of Information and Communications Technology (ICT) in promoting informed decision-making, accountability and the effective administration of justice. He added that the institution continues to embrace technological innovation to respond to the evolving needs of court users, with ECCMIS providing key digital services such as electronic filing, online case management and other automated court processes. The Registrar explained that participants would receive practical instruction on the System’s features, functionalities and best practices to enable them to use ECCMIS effectively in their daily work. The training, he noted, will also cover the system’s automation tools that streamline electronic filing, case management and reporting, reduce manual processes and errors, generate real-time reports to support timely decision-making and accountability, and integrate court operations within a unified digital platform. HW Zirintusa urged the judicial officers to embrace the System with dedication and goodwill to ensure the smooth progression of cases through the electronic platform. He encouraged participants to actively engage throughout the training in order to acquire the practical knowledge and skills necessary for effective implementation at their respective courts. The technical sessions commenced with an introduction to ECCMIS session made by Mr Brian Oryema, Computer Programmer. Later in the day, Ms Flavia Chandiru, Senior Systems Administrator, is expected to conduct in-depth practical sessions covering civil processes and the functionality of ECCMIS. The training is being moderated by Mr Dennis Rwatoro, Senior Systems Administrator

Log on tonight at 7:00pm for more insights about the Performance Enhancement Tool. youtube.com/live/Sffb47kRa…

The Principal Judge, Lady Justice Jane Frances Abodo, has called for closer collaboration between the Judiciary and the Leadership Code Tribunal to strengthen integrity, accountability and the efficient administration of justice. The call was made this morning when members Tribunal paid a courtesy call on the Principal Judge at the Supreme Court. The visit marked the Tribunal’s first formal engagement with the Judiciary following the appointment and swearing-in of its new members earlier this year. Lady Justice Abodo congratulated the members on their appointment and expressed confidence in their ability to discharge their constitutional mandate with integrity, independence and diligence. She observed that the Leadership Code Tribunal occupies an important place in the administration of justice, noting that its work in adjudicating breaches of the Leadership Code of Conduct complements the Judiciary’s broader mandate of upholding the rule of law and promoting accountability. The Principal Judge pledged the Judiciary’s continued support to the Tribunal and emphasized that the two institutions share a common responsibility of promoting justice, integrity and public confidence in governance. To improve efficiency, Lady Justice Abodo encouraged the Tribunal to embrace digital transformation by digitising its registry and adopting the Electronic Court Case Management Information System (ECCMIS). She also recommended exploring mediation as an alternative means of resolving appropriate matters, including drawing on the expertise of retired judges and experienced retired civil servants to serve as mediators and help ease the Tribunal’s workload. She stressed that integrity remains the foundation of every justice institution, observing that public confidence is the Judiciary’s greatest asset and must be safeguarded through ethical leadership, transparency and professionalism. The Principal Judge further proposed regular engagements between the Judiciary and the Tribunal, suggesting biannual meetings to strengthen institutional cooperation, review progress and jointly address emerging challenges affecting the administration of justice. Speaking on behalf of the Tribunal, its Chairperson, Dr. Roselyn Karugonjo Segawa, congratulated Lady Justice Abodo on her historic appointment as Uganda’s first female Principal Judge. She equally thanked her for receiving the delegation despite her demanding schedule. And expressed appreciation to the Principal Judge for presiding over the swearing-in of the Tribunal members on 7 January 2026. Dr. Segawa briefed the Principal Judge on the Tribunal’s constitutional mandate to receive, examine and determine cases involving alleged breaches of the Leadership Code of Conduct referred by the Inspectorate of Government, as well as hear appeals and applications arising from decisions of the Inspectorate. She reaffirmed the Tribunal’s commitment to serving with integrity, independence and impartiality, noting that corruption continues to undermine national development and that the Tribunal remains committed to contributing to the country’s anti-corruption efforts. Dr. Segawa informed the meeting that the Tribunal is finalising its five-year Strategic Plan and is committed to eliminating case backlog by ensuring that every matter is determined fairly and expeditiously. She requested continued collaboration with the Judiciary in areas including case management, registry administration, capacity building, implementation of ECCMIS, coordination of appeals, enforcement of Tribunal decisions and support for regional hearings. Members of the Tribunal thanked the Principal Judge for her guidance, practical insights and commitment to strengthening cooperation between the two institutions.The meeting was attended by the Deputy Chairperson of the Leadership Code Tribunal, Dr. Anthony Kakooza as well as other members of the Tribunal, HW Edgar Nyakairu, Personal Assistant to the Principal Judge

The Chief Justice, Justice Dr. Flavian Zeija, has underscored the importance of judicial wellbeing, collegiality, and institutional excellence as essential pillars for improving the efficiency and effectiveness of appellate justice in Uganda. The Chief Justice made the remarks while officially opening the Third Joint Retreat for Justices of the Supreme Court, Court of Appeal and Constitutional Court at Brovad Sands Lodge in Kalangala. The retreat, organised by the Judicial Training Institute (JTI), is being held under the theme: "Enhancing Efficiency & Effectiveness in Appellate Case Disposal While Maintaining Judicial Wellbeing." The retreat has brought together Justices of the Supreme Court, Court of Appeal and Constitutional Court, alongside Registrars from the Supreme Court, Court of Appeal and the Judicial Training Institute (JTI), as well as magistrates attached to the JTI, to reflect on practical strategies for enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of appellate case disposal while safeguarding judicial wellbeing. Some participants are attending the retreat virtually, enabling broader engagement in the deliberations. Also in attendance are Chief Justice Emeritus, Justice Alfonse Chigamoy Owiny - Dollo, and Deputy Chief Justice Emeritus, Justice Richard Buteera. The Chief Justice described the retreat as more than a break from the demanding schedules of appellate courts, noting that it provides a valuable opportunity for reflection, renewal and charting the future direction of Uganda's Judiciary. He observed that the Supreme Court and the Court of Appeal carry the solemn responsibility of shaping the country's jurisprudence and called upon judicial officers to continually uphold excellence while safeguarding their personal wellbeing. "For too long, the narrative of a judicial officer has been one of enduring silent suffering," the Chief Justice said, emphasizing that judicial wellness is not a luxury but a fundamental requirement for effective case management and the proper administration of justice. Justice Zeija noted that prolonged stress and burnout inevitably affect the quality of judicial reasoning and the timely delivery of decisions. He highlighted the Judiciary's ongoing institutional wellness initiatives, including confidential professional counselling, medical camps, gym facilities and aerobics programmes, urging judicial officers to fully utilise these services. The Chief Justice further stressed that appellate courts thrive on collegiality, mutual respect and constructive engagement. While acknowledging that differing opinions are an important part of jurisprudential development, he encouraged Justices to continue fostering teamwork, mentoring newer members of the Bench and supporting one another in handling increasingly complex litigation. He also challenged the appellate courts to produce judgments that are logical, concise, well-reasoned and grounded in clear legal principles. According to him, clear and consistent appellate decisions provide vital guidance to lower courts, promote uniform interpretation of the law and reduce unnecessary appeals. Justice Zeija further linked the work of appellate courts to Uganda's national development agenda, noting that timely resolution of commercial disputes, protection of constitutional rights and effective use of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanisms create certainty for citizens and investors alike. He observed that an efficient, predictable and impartial Judiciary strengthens public confidence, promotes economic growth and unlocks productive resources tied up in prolonged litigation. The Chief Justice commended the Governing Council, Executive Director and staff of the Judicial Training Institute for organising the retreat and thanked the facilitators for sharing their expertise. He urged participants to use the retreat to renew their commitment to judicial excellence and officially declared the retreat open

Judicial officers of the Standards, Utilities and Wildlife Court have held a stakeholders’ meeting with prosecutors from the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) and licensed prosecutors from agencies that prosecute cases before the Court to strengthen collaboration and improve the adjudication of specialised criminal cases. The meeting, chaired by the Chief Magistrate, HW Gladys Kamasanyu Musenze, brought together judicial officers and prosecutors to review the court’s performance, share experiences, identify operational challenges and agree on measures to enhance the efficient administration of justice. Welcoming participants, HW Kamasanyu said the engagement provided an opportunity for stakeholders to exchange feedback, celebrate achievements, identify bottlenecks and develop practical solutions for improving service delivery. She noted that the establishment of the Standards, Utilities and Wildlife Court was intended to enhance the efficiency of the criminal justice system through the expeditious, orderly, consistent and cost-effective adjudication of cases involving standards, utilities and wildlife. Adding that the specialised Court also aims to reduce case backlog and prison congestion while ensuring timely disposal of such cases. HW Kamasanyu commended prosecutors for their teamwork and professionalism, noting that their cooperation has greatly contributed to the Court’s ability to deliver timely justice. She observed that the Court has strengthened public confidence in the handling of specialised cases and reported that no complaints had been received from court users since its establishment. She further encouraged stakeholders to embrace the Electronic Court Case Management Information System (ECCMIS), informing them that the court has fully transitioned to a paperless system. She urged prosecutors to remain connected to their cases through the platform to improve efficiency and case tracking. Presenting the Court’s performance statistics generated from ECCMIS, HW Kamasanyu encouraged stakeholders to analyse the data and use it to identify areas requiring improvement. She also highlighted the court’s contribution to national revenue, revealing that it had collected UGX 518,760,000 in fines, demonstrating the court’s role in supporting government revenue mobilisation alongside the administration of justice. Speaking on behalf of the prosecutors, the Chief State Attorney, Ms Barbara Masinde, commended the judicial officers for their professionalism, accessibility and commitment to efficient justice delivery. She thanked the court for maintaining an open-door policy and fostering a collaborative working environment, noting that the meeting provided a valuable platform for dialogue rather than merely issuing directives. Ms Masinde further applauded the judicial officers for their dedication to public service, observing that the Court is among the fastest in the country in disposing of cases. She also appreciated the guidance, patience and support consistently extended to prosecutors by the court. The meeting was attended by Magistrates HW Molly Alice Adong and HW Geoffrey Akena; State Attorneys from the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions; and licensed prosecutors from the Uganda Wildlife Authority, National Environment Management Authority, Uganda National Bureau of Standards, Uganda Communications Commission, Uganda Electricity Distribution Company Limited, Uganda Registration Services Bureau, National Drug Authority, National Water and Sewerage Corporation and Uganda Electricity Transmission Company Limited

The Chief Justice, Justice Dr. Flavian Zeija, has announced plans to integrate the Judiciary’s Performance Enhancement Tool (PET) with the Judicial Service Commission’s (JSC) systems to ensure that the recruitment, promotion and management of judicial officers are increasingly informed by objective performance data. He made the announcement while officiating as Chief Guest at the Judicial Service Commission Annual Stakeholders’ Forum held at the Supreme Court Conference Hall in Kampala. Justice Zeija said the integration would enable the Commission to access judicial officers’ performance records during promotion processes while also allowing the PET recruitment portal to interface with the Commission’s systems, thereby improving efficiency and eliminating duplication. “The Judicial Service Commission has a duty to ensure that only those with proven merit ascend the Bench. This is the first non-negotiable step towards transforming justice delivery in the country,” he said. The Chief Justice further announced that the Judiciary would strengthen performance management by publishing annual performance results of judicial officers on its website, warning that non-performance would no longer be tolerated. He said continuous performance evaluation would become a key feature of judicial administration, with officers expected to meet established standards, while those who consistently underperform would face appropriate disciplinary action. Justice Zeija called for stronger collaboration among administration of justice institutions, including the Judiciary, Judicial Service Commission, Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, Uganda Police Force, Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs and the Bar, to address systemic challenges contributing to case backlog and prolonged pre-trial detention. He also advocated for joint public engagement initiatives through Court Open Days, radio programmes and other outreach activities to improve public awareness and confidence in the justice system. On innovation, the Chief Justice noted that the Electronic Court Case Management Information System (ECCMIS) has significantly reduced case processing time, minimised physical interaction, eliminated manual file losses and enhanced transparency in court operations. He encouraged the Judicial Service Commission to leverage technology in its recruitment, appointment and disciplinary processes and called for greater utilisation of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) to reduce case backlog, lower litigation costs and promote harmonious resolution of disputes. “To effectively transform justice delivery, we cannot rely solely on traditional archaic methods of operation. Innovation is a catalyst that will propel our justice system into the 21st century,” he said. During the event, Justice Zeija also officially launched the Judicial Service Commission Client Charter, Service Delivery Standards and the Commission’s Third Strategic Plan, describing them as important instruments for strengthening accountability, improving service delivery and guiding the Commission’s strategic direction in the years ahead. Justice Zeija emphasised that transforming justice delivery requires merit, accountability and innovation, commending the Commission for maintaining merit-based recruitment while urging it to continue appointing judicial officers with integrity, legal competence, emotional intelligence and sound moral character. He emphasized the Judiciary’s zero-tolerance policy on corruption, unethical conduct, unnecessary delays, laziness and mediocrity, describing the JSC as a critical partner in building an efficient, accessible and trusted justice system. “There is no room for corrupt elements in Uganda’s justice system, nor do we have room for laziness and mediocrity,” he said. In his remarks, the Chairperson of the JSC, Justice Douglas Singiza Karekona, highlighted key achievements of the Seventh Commission

“Performance management is essential if we are to build an efficient and accountable Judiciary. Every judicial officer should have measurable performance indicators. When an officer appears before a promotions or appraisal committee, the committee should be able to review objective performance data and determine whether that officer has met the required standards. In this way, promotions will be based on evidence rather than perception. Officers will also be able to assess their own performance and identify areas that require improvement. Performance measurement should therefore become an important tool in transforming justice delivery. If we are truly committed to transforming the administration of justice, we cannot continue relying solely on traditional and outdated methods of operation. Innovation is the catalyst that will propel our justice system into the future. The Judiciary has already embraced technology through the rollout of the Electronic Court Case Management Information System (ECCMIS). This digital platform has streamlined case filing, reduced unnecessary physical interactions, enhanced transparency, and improved efficiency in the administration of justice. Innovation also extends to the way disputes are resolved. We must continue promoting Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanisms, including mediation, plea bargaining, and other appropriate forms of dispute resolution. Not every disagreement requires a lengthy court process. By encouraging ADR, we reduce case backlogs, save both time and financial resources, and promote social harmony within our communities. On the part of the Judicial Service Commission, technology should likewise be embraced to ensure that recruitment, appointments, promotions, and disciplinary processes are conducted transparently, efficiently, and within reasonable timelines. I am aware of one of the challenges that has already been mentioned—the fact that Commissioners serve on a part-time basis. Given the Commission’s expanding constitutional mandate, this presents a significant challenge. Today, the Commission is responsible not only for appointments and discipline but also for several additional functions assigned to it by law. It is therefore becoming increasingly difficult to discharge all these responsibilities effectively within the current structure. While this arrangement is established by the Constitution, we should continue exploring practical ways of strengthening the Commission’s institutional capacity, including the possibility of increasing full-time support where appropriate. Transforming justice delivery requires close collaboration between the Judiciary and the Judicial Service Commission. More importantly, it requires a whole-of-justice-sector approach. I therefore call upon all justice sector institutions—including the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, the Uganda Police Force, the Uganda Prisons Service, the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, the Uganda Law Society, and the private Bar—to continue working together in seamless partnership. We must harmonise our processes, share information, and strengthen coordination. For example, where there are security threats affecting judicial officers or court operations, institutions responsible for intelligence and security should identify those risks early and work collaboratively to address them before they disrupt the administration of justice. Working together in this manner will help eliminate bottlenecks, reduce case backlogs, improve public confidence, and strengthen the rule of law. Above all, our goal must remain clear: to ensure that every Ugandan, regardless of social or economic status, has access to timely, affordable, and impartial justice. As I conclude, I reaffirm the Judiciary’s commitment to upholding the highest standards of integrity, accountability, professionalism, and innovation.”

The Chief Registrar, HW Agnes Alum, yesterday met with staff of the Judiciary's Communications and Public Relations Registry in her chambers at the High Court Building in Kampala. The meeting is part of the Chief Registrar’s ongoing engagements with different registries to better understand their work and identify areas requiring institutional support. HW Alum said the meeting was an opportunity for her to familiarise herself with the Registry and gain a deeper appreciation of its role in advancing the Judiciary’s mandate. The Registrar Communications and Public Relations Registry and Judiciary Public Relations Officer, HW James Ereemye Jumire Mawanda, presented an overview of the Registry’s mandate, explaining that it is responsible for coordinating the Judiciary’s internal and external communication, media relations, public information, client care, multimedia production, protocol services, digital communication platforms and public engagement initiatives. In The Chief Registrar commended the Registry for its work and acknowledged the important role it plays in promoting public awareness and the Judiciary's image. The Judiciary's Communications and Public Relations Registry comprises Communications Officers, Multimedia Officers, Client Service Officers and Protocol Officers, among others

Happening Now: The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) is holding its Annual Stakeholders' Forum meeting at the Supreme Court’s Conference Hall in Kampala. The meeting is being held under the theme: " *Transforming Justice Delivery Through Merit, Accountability, and Innovation."* It has brought together representatives from across the Justice Sector including Judiciary. The Chief Guest is the Chief Justice, Justice Dr. Flavian Zeija. The JSC team is led by Justice Dr. Douglas Singiza Karekona (Chairperson JSC), alongside Lady Justice Rosette Comfort Kania, Deputy Chairperson, and Dr. Rose Nassali Lukwago, Permanent Secretary/Secretary to the Commission, among others. Judiciary delegation is includes members of the Top Management, including Justice Moses Kazibwe Kawumi (Deputy Chief Justice), Lady Justice Jane Frances Abodo (Principal Judge), and HW Alum Agnes (Chief Registrar). Also present is the Attorney General, Mr. Sam Mayanja. The meeting will feature presentations on JSC recruitment, challenges in disciplinary control, emerging issues in legal education, and anti-corruption. It also includes a panel discussion featuring representatives from the Inspectorate of Government (IGG), JSC, Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), Judicial Training Institute (JTI), Uganda Police Force, and the Inspectorate of Courts. The event will conclude with the launch of the JSC Strategic Plan, Service Delivery Standards, and Client Charter. The meeting is being moderated by HW James Ereemye Jumire Mawanda, Judiciary's Public Relations Officer

Earlier today, the Executive Committee of the Uganda Judicial Officers’ Association (UJOA) met the Chief Justice, Justice Dr. Flavian Zeija, at the Supreme Court in Kampala, where it presented a memorandum seeking improved remuneration, enhanced welfare, stronger security measures and better working conditions for Judicial Officers. The meeting was convened to brief the Chief Justice on the Association’s activities and recent engagements, as well as to present members’ concerns and proposals aimed at improving the welfare and effectiveness of Judicial Officers, particularly those serving on the lower bench. Leading the delegation, UJOA President, HW Ayebare Daphne, thanked the Chief Justice for his leadership of the Judiciary’s transformation agenda, particularly the transition to paperless courts, and for his continued support to Judicial Officers. She also commended the Judiciary for introducing wellness and fitness programmes that have benefited both Judicial and non-Judicial Officers. She updated the Chief Justice on UJOA’s recent engagements with the Judicial Service Commission, where members discussed salary enhancement, discipline and integrity. She also briefed him about meetings with the Chief Registrar regarding staff transfers, including a request to have some members of the UJOA Executive posted closer to Kampala, noting that about 80 per cent currently serve in upcountry stations. HW Ayebare also highlighted the Association’s ongoing initiatives, including the establishment of an UJOA farm to generate sustainable income, implementation of its 2026/2027 work plan, continued dialogue engagements and activities planned to mark International Judicial Wellness Month this July. She further outlined welfare initiatives such as the proposed Rotary Club, UJOA Patrons’ Annual Dinner and a golf tournament, saying these are intended to strengthen collegiality, mental wellness and interaction among Judicial Officers. The Association’s memorandum was then presented by UJOA General Secretary, HW Mallen Obizu, who noted that the expanded jurisdiction of the lower bench had significantly increased the workload of Magistrates. She appealed for commensurate salary enhancement, improved transport, housing, medical and family welfare, increased facilitation for courts, particularly in the handling of criminal cases, enhanced security for Judicial Officers, protection against cyberbullying and social media attacks, improved court infrastructure and ICT tools, statutory recognition of UJOA, and institutional support for the Association’s programmes. She also appealed for continued support towards Judicial Officers’ participation in regional professional engagements, including those organised by the East African Magistrates’ and Judges’ Association and the Commonwealth Magistrates’ and Judges’ Association. Responding to the memorandum, the Chief Justice welcomed the continued engagement between the Judiciary leadership and UJOA, describing dialogue as the most effective way of addressing institutional concerns and strengthening the administration of justice. On the Judiciary’s digital transformation, he commended Judicial Officers for embracing paperless courts and noted that the rollout of the Electronic Court Case Management Information System (ECCMIS) was progressing steadily, supported by the recent recruitment of additional Information Technology officers to strengthen implementation across the country. The Chief Justice also welcomed UJOA’s engagement with the Judicial Service Commission, observing that such discussions were important in resolving institutional issues. At the same time, he urged Judicial Officers to uphold discipline and integrity, warning that misconduct, particularly corruption, damages both individual reputations and public confidence in the Judiciary

Day II: The Judiciary Council has resumed its two-day retreat at Lake Victoria Serena Golf Resort & Spa, Kigo. The Council is today considering the draft Code of Conduct for the Judiciary Service, 2026, with a presentation by Ms Apophia N. Tumwine, Commissioner Human Resource Management. Established under the Administration of the Judiciary Act, 2020, the Judiciary Council advises the Chief Justice on the administration and governance of the Judiciary, including policies on human resource management, institutional development, and measures aimed at promoting efficiency, accountability, and professionalism within the Judiciary

The Court of Appeal has reported significant progress in the use of appellate mediation, fully settling 23 appeals during the recently concluded Appellate Mediation Fortnight and expanding its mediation programme with the addition of 11 experienced mediators. The two-week Case Settlement Fortnight, held from June 1 to 16, 2026, was part of the Court’s continued efforts to promote Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) as a faster, less costly and more amicable means of resolving appeals. Out of the 100 appeals cause-listed for mediation, 23 were fully settled; the equivalent of a civil appellate session; while mediation was unsuccessful in 32 matters. A further 56 appeals remain under active mediation and are expected to continue beyond the fortnight. The mediation sessions were conducted by Justices of the Court of Appeal under the leadership of the Deputy Chief Justice, Justice Moses Kazibwe Kawumi, with the support of Justice Richard Buteera (Deputy Chief Justice Emeritus), Justice Geoffrey Kiryabwire (Court Administrator), retired Justice Remmy Kasule and Registrars of the Court. Presenting a report during a meeting of the Court’s Justices yesterday, HW Zulaika Nanteza, Deputy Registrar Appellate Mediation, said the mediation exercise was successfully conducted with strong participation from advocates and their clients, contributing to the smooth running of the programme. She also reported growing confidence in appellate mediation, revealing that the Court currently has 266 appeals pending under mediation. And encouraged continued referral of suitable cases to the programme. In a further boost to the initiative, the Court Administrator, Justice Geoffrey Kiryabwire, announced that the Court had received 11 additional accredited mediators to strengthen the appellate mediation programme. The newly attached mediators include Chief Justice Emeritus Alfonse Chigamoy Owiny - Dollo, the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, Norbert Mao, retired Supreme Court Justice Eldad Mwangusya, and retired Court of Appeal Justice Remmy Kasule. Others include Advocates; Mr Francis Atoke, Mr Francis Gimara, Senior Counsel, Ms Ruth Sebatindira Senior Counsel, Mr Norah Winyi Matovu, Mr George Omunyukol, Mr Maxim Mutabingwa and Mr Anaclet Turyakira. Justice Richard Buteera, Deputy Chief Justice Emeritus, continues to serve as one of the Court’s accredited mediators. Justice Kiryabwire further informed the meeting that dedicated mediation rooms have been established at the Court with support from the Judiciary’s Top Management, providing an enabling environment for the expanding mediation programme. The Justices also discussed strategies to further increase the uptake of Alternative Dispute Resolution at the appellate level. Closing the meeting, the Deputy Chief Justice congratulated the Justices and the mediation team on the achievements recorded during the settlement fortnight and commended them for their commitment to improving access to justice through mediation

The Judiciary has intensified its efforts to reduce the growing backlog of land disputes with the launch of the Land Division’s Land Settlement Fortnight, an initiative expected to resolve hundreds of cases through court-annexed mediation over the next two weeks. The exercise, officially flagged off this morning by the Principal Judge, Lady Justice Jane Frances Abodo, at TWED Towers in Kampala, has cause-listed 519 land cases for mediation, with the Judiciary targeting the settlement of about 270 matters. The initiative forms part of the Judiciary’s broader strategy to promote Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) as a faster, less costly and less adversarial means of resolving disputes while easing pressure on the courts. Launching the fortnight, Lady Justice Abodo said the exercise comes at a critical time for the Land Division, which continues to grapple with one of the heaviest caseloads. Statistics presented during the launch indicate that the Division registered 1,067 new cases during the third quarter of the Financial Year 2025/2026, bringing the total pending caseload to 7,279 cases as at 31 March 2026. Although 1,363 cases were disposed of during the same period, including 58 through mediation, the Division still carries a backlog of 3,294 cases, representing 45.2 per cent of pending matters. She said the figures demonstrate the urgent need to expand the use of mediation in resolving land disputes. The Principal Judge noted that land cases are among the most complex matters handled by the courts because they often involve multiple parties, extensive documentary evidence and deep emotional and social interests. She observed that delayed resolution of such disputes not only affects families and communities but also undermines economic development, discourages investment and weakens public confidence in the justice system. Lady Justice Abodo commended the Judges, Registrars, mediators and support staff of the Land Division for their continued dedication despite the demanding nature of their work. She also applauded advocates and accredited mediators for partnering with the Judiciary in promoting access to justice through mediation. She explained that the Settlement Fortnight is being implemented under the Judicature (Court-Annexed Mediation) Rules, 2026, which provide a structured framework for resolving disputes through mediation within 60 days. The Rules also provide for Judiciary-supported mediation services and make mediated settlement agreements enforceable as court orders. Calling for greater commitment from all justice sector actors, the Principal Judge urged judicial officers to identify suitable cases for mediation, prioritise older matters and remove inactive files that unnecessarily inflate the Division’s pending caseload. She appealed to advocates to guide their clients towards practical settlements instead of prolonged litigation and encouraged mediators to utilise their expertise to help parties reach mutually beneficial agreements. Then Principal Judge reiterated the Judiciary’s commitment to strengthening the Land Division through improved case management, continuous capacity building, enhanced collaboration with stakeholders and better operational support. Earlier, the Head of the Land Division, Lady Justice Damalie Lwanga, described mediation as an effective, affordable and relationship-preserving mechanism that enables parties to resolve disputes without undergoing lengthy court proceedings. She revealed that the Division has cause-listed 519 cases for mediation and hopes to settle about 270 of them during the fortnight. She urged litigants and their advocates to attend mediation sessions in person, participate in good faith and embrace dialogue as a means of achieving lasting solutions. Lady Justice Lwanga said the Judiciary had adequately prepared for the exercise through an ADR Roundtable held in May and specialised mediation training conducted by the Judicial Training Institute

@rtumusiime89 This is so so sad. Kyali mahano muno. Mukama abagumye kandi maama amuhe ekihumuro ekirungi

My beloved mum. The fairest of them all, has rested at 68yrs. RIP Abwooli. Burial Hoima.