On Monday 9^th March 10, 2026, the Gumzo la Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) 2026 conference officially commenced at Mestil Hotel, bringing together justice leaders, ADR practitioners, policymakers, and professionals from across Africa for a week long dialogue on strengthening dispute resolution systems.

Delivering the opening address, Hon. Norbert Mao, the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, highlighted the critical role of Alternative Dispute Resolution in transforming Uganda’s justice system. He emphasized that the judiciary’s shift toward ADR is ultimately about serving citizens by ensuring disputes are resolved efficiently, fairly, and affordably rather than being prolonged through litigation.

Hon. Mao noted that strong collaboration within the justice sector has been key to advancing reforms. Reflecting on his experience as Minister, he pointed to his working relationship with the Chief Justice, Flavian Zeija, as an example of how alignment and leadership at the highest levels can drive meaningful change.

According to the Minister, such cooperation has supported efforts to streamline court processes and reduce case backlogs.

In his remarks, Hon. Mao stressed that ADR is not only about legal outcomes but also about restoring harmony and relationships between parties. Drawing from African jurisprudence and traditional community practices, he highlighted the principles of truth, fairness, and accountability, noting that ADR resonates strongly with local cultural values while offering faster and more effective solutions to disputes.

He also paid tribute to the judiciary, private sector, and development partners for their continued support in promoting ADR and expanding access to justice.

The Minister described ADR as a strategic tool for national development, capable of improving investor confidence, promoting stability, and making dispute resolution more transparent, efficient, and inclusive for all Ugandans.

The five day conference, running from March 9 to March 13, will convene experts to exchange experiences and explore ways to position ADR as a preferred mechanism for dispute resolution in Africa.

The Law Council of Uganda convened a two day workshop aimed at strengthening ethics and professional standards within Uganda’s legal profession. The workshop held at Mestil Hotel on 15^th to 16^th December, 2025, brought together key stakeholders to share best practices, address existing challenges, and explore emerging issues in disciplinary processes affecting the legal sector.

The workshop was officiated by the Chairperson of the Law Council, Lady Justice Iren Mulyagonja, who stated that the engagement was intended to enhance the capacity of the Disciplinary Committee and the Secretariat to effectively manage disciplinary matters and uphold the integrity of the legal profession. She emphasized that the forum provided an important platform for stakeholders to deliberate on best practices, challenges, and evolving trends in disciplinary mechanisms.

Lady Justice Mulyagonja underscored the central role of ethics in the legal profession and highlighted the need for a robust and efficient case management system. She noted that key recommendations from the workshop included the development of a comprehensive disciplinary procedures manual, the establishment of a robust case management system, and the provision of continuous training and capacity-building programs for members of the Disciplinary Committee.

The Chairperson of the Disciplinary Committee, His Worship Mushebebe Moses Nabende, reaffirmed the Committee’s commitment to implementing the workshop recommendations and promoting professionalism and ethical conduct within the legal profession. He emphasized that the workshop marked a significant milestone in strengthening professionalism and ethics and that the Law Council’s commitment to implementation would contribute to a more accountable and credible legal system in Uganda.

The workshop featured presentations from distinguished experts, including Prof. E.F. Sempebwa, Hon. Justice Boniface Wamala, Mr. Martin Mwambutsya, Director of the Directorate of Civil Litigation (representing the Solicitor General), Mr. Asimwe Anthony, Vice President of the Uganda Law Society (ULS), H/W Mushebebe Moses Nabende, Chairperson of the Disciplinary Committee, and Ms. Jennifer Ameo Ogol, Acting Deputy Registrar, Department of Complaints and Investigations, and Secretary of the Disciplinary Committee of the Judicial Service Commission, among others.

Presentations emphasized the importance of upholding ethical standards and ensuring fair, transparent, and reasonable disciplinary decisions. Topics discussed included an overview of the mandate and challenges of the Disciplinary Committee, ethical standards in the legal profession, disciplinary control and complaint handling, execution and appeals mechanisms, capacity strengthening for both the Committee and the Secretariat, case management techniques, emerging ethical and professional issues among practicing advocates in Uganda, and the disciplinary processes from the perspective of the Uganda Law Society.

The workshop concluded with a collective commitment to strengthen governance, ensure timely disposal of disciplinary cases, and promote professional integrity within the legal profession. The Law Council pledged to follow up on the recommendations and agreed action points, working closely with stakeholders to mobilize the necessary resources and support. Regular updates will be provided on the progress of implementation.

The workshop was attended by key stakeholders, including Justices and Judges of the Courts of Judicature, Deans of law teaching faculties in Uganda, past Presidents and members of the Uganda Law Society, Senior Management staff from the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, members of the Law Council, and staff of the Law Council Secretariat.

Today, 19th November 2025, the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs (MoJCA) officially launched its Sixth Strategic Plan (FY2025/26–2029/30), Service Delivery Standards, and Client Charter at Mestil Hotel in Kampala. The launch brought together senior government officials, development partners, representatives from Justice, Law and Order Sector (JLOS) institutions, and other key stakeholders. This milestone marks a renewed commitment to strengthening Uganda’s justice system, deepening accountability, and enhancing citizen-centered service delivery.

Speaking at the event, the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, who who doubled as the Chief guest, underscored the significance of the day’s launch, noting that the instruments unveiled reflect the Ministry’s collective resolve to advance justice, uphold constitutionalism, and ensure that government actions remain firmly rooted in the rule of law. He emphasized that the new Strategic Plan aligns with national and continental frameworks including Vision 2040, the National Development Plan IV, and the African Union Agenda 2063.

The launch also provided an opportunity to reflect on accomplishments under the Fifth Strategic Plan (FY2020/21–2024/25). Key achievements include remarkable progress on the JLOS House Construction Project, which is nearing completion and will reduce government expenditure on rented office space. The Ministry also expanded regional service delivery through ongoing construction in Soroti and other upcoming regional offices. Effective legal representation by the Attorney General’s chambers saved the Government approximately UGX 4.6 trillion, while the Administrator General facilitated estate administration through the issuance of over 15,900 certificates. Amendments to succession laws and the payout of UGX 158.3 billion in war debt compensation across Acholi, Lango, and Teso subregions further demonstrated the Ministry’s dedication to fairness, justice, and historical redress.

In his remarks, the Permanent Secretary highlighted the Ministry’s strides in embracing digital transformation to enhance efficiency. She expressed appreciation to the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) for supporting the implementation of the Electronic Document and Records Management System (EDRMS) and providing teleconferencing equipment and laptops that have strengthened remote and digital work capabilities.

The newly launched Service Delivery Standards set measurable benchmarks for timeliness, accessibility, and transparency across all Ministry departments. These standards include timelines for the issuance of legal opinions, drafting of legislation, processing of estate administration files, and regulation of the legal profession, among others. They provide a clear framework for monitoring performance and ensuring accountable service delivery.

Complementing the Standards, the Client Charter outlines the rights and obligations of clients, establishes feedback and redress mechanisms, and reinforces the Ministry’s commitment to professionalism, integrity, and impartiality. It affirms that every Ugandan deserves fair, timely, and transparent access to justice services.

The Sixth Strategic Plan sets an ambitious agenda for the period FY2025/26–2029/30. Key priorities include completing all phases of the JLOS House, establishing new regional offices in Masaka, Iganga, Hoima, Lira, and Kabale, expanding access to justice, strengthening compliance with regulatory best practices, and advancing Uganda’s interests at regional and international legal platforms. The Plan also prioritizes building institutional capacity, promoting human rights, enhancing legislative support, and modernizing services through digital tools.

The Ministry extended appreciation to development partners, the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, and all stakeholders who contributed to the development of the Strategic Plan, Service Delivery Standards, and Client Charter. The leadership reaffirmed its commitment to working collaboratively to secure adequate resources to fully implement the Plan.

As the event concluded, both the Minister and Permanent Secretary reaffirmed the Ministry’s pledge to deliver justice services that reflect integrity, efficiency, compassion, and the highest standards of professionalism. The instruments launched today serve as the Ministry’s guiding framework for the next five years, and a roadmap for building a justice system that is accessible, responsive, and firmly anchored in Uganda’s values of dignity, fairness, and constitutionalism.

Summary of the Strategic Plan, Service Delivery Standards and Client Charter.

A Vision Anchored in Justice, Dignity & Constitutionalism

The Minister for Justice and Constitutional Affairs, and Chief guest at the launch emphasized that these three instruments are more than documents, they are a collective declaration of Uganda’s determination to promote justice, strengthen constitutionalism, and advance good governance.

“This launch symbolizes our resolve to deepen justice, constitutionalism, and good governance in Uganda. Let these instruments be our compass toward a future anchored in justice, dignity, and the rule of law.” Hon. Norbert Mao.

He underscored MoJCA’s central role in ensuring that government actions remain firmly grounded in the law and that every Ugandan has access to justice.

Celebrating Key Achievements Under the 5th Strategic Plan

Both the Minister and the Permanent Secretary highlighted the Ministry’s major accomplishments over the last five years, including:

1. Transformational Infrastructure

• Construction of the JLOS House—a landmark facility soon ready for occupation, expected to save Government over UGX 30 billion in annual rent.
• Ongoing establishment of regional offices, such as Soroti, now at 78% completion, to take services closer to the people.

2. Strong Legal Representation

• Strategic litigation efforts saved the country UGX 4.6 trillion in potential losses.

3. Strengthened Family Justice

• 15,911 estate administration certificates issued.
• Amendments to succession laws to enhance gender equity and constitutional alignment.

4. War Debt Compensation

• UGX 158.3 billion paid to 28,281 verified claimants across Acholi, Lango, and Teso.

5. Digital Transformation

• With support from UNDP, deployment of the Electronic Document Management System (EDRMS), teleconferencing facilities, and 145 laptops, enhancing efficiency and remote work.

The Sixth Strategic Plan: A Blueprint for Transformation (2025/26–2029/30)

The new Strategic Plan is aligned with National Development Plan IV, Vision 2040, and the African Union Agenda 2063.

It is built around five core objectives:

1. Strengthening compliance with regulatory best practices
2. Enhancing efficiency in justice service delivery
3. Promoting and protecting the Bill of Rights
4. Advancing Uganda’s interests in regional and international legal frameworks
5. Building institutional coordination and capacity

Key priorities include:

• Completing all phases of the JLOS House
• Establishing five new regional offices (Masaka, Iganga, Hoima, Lira, Kabale)
• Operationalizing the African Union Humanitarian Agency Secretariat
• Expanding automation and building a stronger, more professional workforce

The Minister and Permanent Secretary both called for an increased budget to ensure successful implementation, emphasizing that investment in justice is investment in national stability and socio-economic transformation.

Service Delivery Standards: A New Benchmark of Excellence

The newly launched Service Delivery Standards set clear, measurable obligations for every department, ensuring timely, transparent, and citizen-friendly services. Highlights include:

Legal Advisory Services

• Legal opinions, contracts, and agreements processed within 14 days

Legislative Drafting

• Draft Bills and statutory instruments completed within 30 days

Civil Litigation

• Statutory notices responded to within 45 days

Estate Administration

• Files opened within 1 day, Certificates of No Objection issued within 14 days

Legal Profession Regulation

• Annual inspection of all law chambers and legal aid service providers

These standards offer a performance compass and a powerful accountability tool for both citizens and service providers.

Client Charter: Our Covenant With the Public

The Client Charter reaffirms MoJCA’s foundational values—integrity, transparency, impartiality, professionalism, and respectful service. It outlines:

• The rights and obligations of clients
• Service timelines
• Feedback and redress mechanisms

It is the Ministry’s pledge that every Ugandan, regardless of status, deserves timely and fair access to justice.

A Call to Serve With Integrity, Efficiency & Compassion

In his closing reflections, the Permanent Secretary expressed deep gratitude to staff and development partners whose contributions shaped these instruments.

“Today’s launch is a renewed commitment to delivering efficient, accountable, and citizen-centered justice services. We stand ready to re-engineer our processes and embrace technology to serve Ugandans better.” Mr.Robert Kasande, Permanent Secretary, MoJCA

A New Chapter for Justice Begins

The launch of the Sixth Strategic Plan, Service Delivery Standards, and Client Charter marks the beginning of a bold and transformative journey.

It is a pledge to:

• Serve with integrity
• Strengthen accountability
• Deliver justice more efficiently
• Uphold constitutionalism
• Protect the rights of all Ugandans.

On Friday, 14th November 2025, the Directorate of the First Parliamentary Counsel (FPC) hosted a heartfelt and elegant farewell dinner in honour of Ms. Harriet Lwabi, who retired after an extraordinary 36 years of service to the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs.

The evening unfolded beside the tranquil poolside of Mestil Hotel, glowing under soft lights, gentle music, warm laughter, and the aroma of exquisite food and drinks. It was a serene celebration; one filled with emotion, pride, and deep gratitude.

The event was graced by the Attorney General, the Deputy Solicitor General, the Undersecretary, the Acting Director First Parliamentary Counsel, Directors, Heads of Department, and the entire FPC family, each gathered to honour a woman whose legacy has helped shape Uganda’s legal landscape.

A Legacy Written in the Laws of Uganda

Speaking at the dinner, the Attorney General paid glowing tribute to Ms. Lwabi’s unmatched contribution to the country’s legal framework since she joined the Ministry on 30th May 1989.

For over three decades, her craftsmanship and meticulous dedication have influenced countless principal and subsidiary laws of Uganda. Her expertise quietly underpinned major legal reforms and governance structures, including leading a team to a successful defence in the highstakes Uganda and Heritage Oil and Gass arbitration case, which saved the country USD 434 million funds that later contributed to the construction of the Karuma and Isimba hydropower dams, In the year 2011 to 2012, when she acted as Solicitor General.

Most recently, she played a pivotal role in the preparation of the 7th Revised Edition of the Principal Laws of Uganda, a monumental project ensuring that Uganda’s laws remain clear, accessible, and up to date for generations to come.

But beyond her technical brilliance, he spoke of Ms. Lwabi’s character her humility, calm authority, and innate sense of purpose that made her not only a leader of systems, but a leader of people. She mentored young lawyers, offered dependable advice, and upheld the highest standards of professionalism. “Her name may not always appear on the front pages of our laws,” the Attorney General noted, “but her imprint is permanently written across the Statute Book of Uganda.”

He further commended her impeccable integrity, for the 36 years of service without a single appearance before a sanctions committee or any mention of controversy.
“Service without fault is the highest form of service,” he remarked. “Ms. Lwabi, you have served with excellence.”

The Unsung Guardians of Order”: The Deputy Solicitor General’s Tribute

The Deputy Solicitor General, Mr. Charles Ouma, brought humour, honesty, and heartfelt appreciation to the evening as he spoke about the unique demands placed on the Directorate of the First Parliamentary Counsel.

He acknowledged, with a knowing smile, that FPC is a directorate that carries more stress and pressure than most people ever realize, while constantly navigating expectations from every direction: citizens, technocrats, institutions, and politicians, all eager for the law to reflect their hopes, priorities, and desires.

“It is a mystery task trying to satisfy everyone,” he noted, drawing laughter and nods from the audience. Yet, it is this very work, often unseen, often misunderstood that keeps the country anchored and functioning.

He thanked every member of the Directorate present, recognizing their role in holding the nation together:

“You do the work that keeps all of us in this country in check.”

Reflecting on how far the legal system has come, he noted that long ago society operated on unwritten norms, but today the complexities of modern governance require certainty, structure, and foresight:

“Long ago, there were unwritten rules, but now we scribe the rules for a world full of uncertainty and unpredictability. And it is not an easy task.”

In a special tribute to the outgoing Director, he praised Ms. Harriet’s exceptional calmness and composure, even in the face of the most challenging decisions:

He commended her steady hand, her firm but gentle leadership, and her ability to remain poised amidst the pressures of national demands.

‘Big Shoes to Fill’: The Acting FPC Director’s Tribute

The Acting Director, First Parliamentary Counsel, Ms. Irene Lugayizi, delivered a sincere and deeply moving tribute to Ms. Harriet Lwabi, a mentor, leader, and quiet force behind Uganda’s legislative excellence.

She began by acknowledging the honour and humility she feels stepping into a role shaped by Ms. Lwabi’s 36 years of unwavering service.

“To say I am stepping into big shoes is an understatement,” she said.
“Ms. Harriet set a standard in quality, leadership, and integrity that anyone who follows must aspire to.”

Ms. Lugayizi described her former boss as a calm and steady leader, patient in teaching, wise in counsel, and devoted to the discipline of legislative drafting. She emphasized that Ms. Lwabi’s contribution to Uganda’s Statute Book is vast, thoughtful, and deeply influential, even if often done quietly and without fanfare.

What stood out most, she said, was her leadership style:
not loud, but firm; not demanding, but inspiring; not rushed, but deeply thoughtful. Her guidance shaped the culture of the Directorate and strengthened the institution from within.

Reflecting on the transition, she spoke with heartfelt gratitude:
“Thank you for leading with grace. Thank you for the wisdom you shared, the calmness you carried, and the spirit of service you lived by.”

She noted that Ms. Lwabi leaves behind not just completed work, but a living legacy found in the systems she built, the standards she set, and the people she mentored.

“Her fingerprints are everywhere,” she added. “As we move forward, we do so stronger because of her.”

She closed by wishing Ms. Lwabi rest, joy, and fulfilment in the next chapter, assuring her that the foundation she built will continue to guide the Directorate for years to come.

Ms. Lwabi’s Own Words: A Heartfelt Farewell

In her moving message of appreciation, Ms. Harriet Lwabi expressed gratitude for the overwhelming love and honour shown to her during the celebration:

“The kind words, praises and beautiful gifts left me in awe.”

She described it as the greatest honour of her life to serve Uganda “in the quiet spaces of the FPC Directorate,” and thanked colleagues at every level for their support and collegiality through the years.

She reminded the team of the noble calling they share: “There is no greater work or honour than building your own country, brick by brick, and making the lives of Ugandans better.” And with warmth, humility, and grace, she concluded: “I shall miss you all. God bless and keep you.”

(4 Pictures)

A Night to Remember

The farewell evening was more than a celebration it was a testament to a lifetime of service rendered with honour, skill, and unwavering integrity. The poolside echoed with heartfelt speeches, good music, great food, clinking glasses, and the warmth of colleagues turned family.

As the Ministry bids farewell to Ms. Harriet Lwabi, it also celebrates a legacy that will continue to guide the Directorate of the First Parliamentary Counsel and inspire generations of legal professionals.

Her chapter at the Ministry closes, but the story she has written in law, in leadership, and in the hearts of her colleagues, will endure.

Kampala, Uganda, 22nd/October, 2025. The Attorney General of Uganda, Hon. Kiryowa Kiwanuka, today held a high level meeting with a delegation from the International Criminal Court (ICC) to discuss matters of mutual interest and explore avenues for deeper collaboration.

The engagement focused on strengthening cooperation between Uganda and the ICC, with both parties expressing a shared commitment to fostering institutional understanding and mutual respect.

Held in a cordial and constructive environment, the discussions emphasized the critical importance of maintaining confidentiality, especially when handling sensitive cases and sources and information. Both sides recognized that safeguarding such confidentiality is essential for building trust and ensuring a supportive atmosphere for addressing complex legal issues.

The Attorney General highlighted the need for continuous dialogue and capacity building, stressing that continuous knowledge exchange would contribute significantly to improving legal procedures and supporting practitioners who operate within international legal frameworks.

Further, the meeting underscored the value of streamlining legal processes to make them more accessible and effective, particularly in handling cases of international concern. Emphasis was also placed on the importance of public awareness and procedural clarity, key components in strengthening the rule of law and access to justice.

As the meeting concluded, both parties reaffirmed their dedication to continued engagement and cooperation, committing to maintain open lines of communication and collaboration on areas of shared interest moving forward. In attendance were the Solicitor General, Mr. Pius Perry Biribonwoha, and the Director of Civil Litigation, Mr. Martin Mwambustya, whose presence underscored the weight of the discussions and the shared commitment to advancing mutual objectives.

Tuesday, 21st October, 2025. The Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs officially opened a high-level Budget Framework Paper (BFP) Preparation Workshop for the Financial Year 2026/27 at the Imperial Resort Beach Hotel in Entebbe. The workshop has brought together heads of departments, regional representatives, and planning officers to chart a path for the Ministry’s priorities and resource allocations in alignment with national development goals.

While opening the conference, Mr. Kasande Robert, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, emphasized the significance of the budget cycle in the broader context of Uganda’s strategic development agenda. He welcomed all participants and congratulated newly appointed acting heads of the recently created departments and regional offices.