The Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs today commenced its annual Health Camp, bringing together staff and management for a three-day wellness initiative aimed at promoting healthy living and preventive healthcare.

The Under Secretary, Mr. Moris Muhindo, welcomed participants, thanked the organizers for coordinating the exercise, and encouraged all staff to take advantage of the services provided to identify and address any health concerns.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Robert Kasande, described the health camp as an important annual activity that plays a vital role in promoting staff wellbeing. He commended the Human Resource division for their continued efforts in mobilizing staff and coordinating the event year after year.

Mr. Kasande urged employees to make full use of the medical screening services available, particularly for non-communicable diseases, noting that early detection is key to effective treatment and management. He also emphasized the importance of maintaining healthy lifestyles through regular exercise, proper time management, and participation in the Ministry’s weekly fitness activities.

He further acknowledged the contribution of the Ministry’s health partners, including Dr. Agarwal’s Hospital, Uganda China Friendship Hospital, Norvik Hospital, the Ministry of Health, the TB and Leprosy Van, and the Uganda Cancer Institute, for supporting the health camp.

The Solicitor General, Mr. Pius Perry Biribonwoha, commended the organizers and highlighted the growing importance of workplace wellness, especially in an increasingly digital work environment. He noted that the introduction of the Electronic Document and Records Management System (EDOX) has enhanced efficiency and accountability but has also resulted in staff spending longer hours seated at their workstations.

He encouraged employees to adopt healthier work habits such as taking regular breaks, walking more frequently, using staircases where possible, and engaging in physical activity during the workday. He also stressed the importance of maintaining good mental health and seeking support whenever necessary.

The Solicitor General reminded staff that physical and mental wellbeing are essential for productivity and quality service delivery, urging them to make deliberate choices each day to maintain a healthy work-life balance.

Over the three-day health camp, staff are receiving a wide range of services, including HIV/AIDS counselling and testing, tuberculosis screening, breast and prostate cancer screening, diabetes testing, dental and eye examinations, Hepatitis B screening and vaccination, and individual medical consultations.

The camp also features health education sessions conducted by medical professionals and positive living advocates. The presentations focus on wellness and nutrition, stress management and mental health, and HIV/AIDS management and positive living, equipping staff with knowledge and practical skills to improve their overall wellbeing.

A candlelight memorial ceremony was held to commemorate and honour friends, colleagues, and loved ones who lost their lives to HIV/AIDS, while also expressing solidarity with those living positively.

The health camp will run from 24th to 26th June 2026, providing all Ministry staff with an opportunity to access essential health services, receive professional medical guidance, and strengthen their commitment to healthy living.

The Ministry continues to prioritize the health and wellbeing of its workforce, recognizing that a healthy and productive staff is fundamental to the effective delivery of justice and legal services to the people of Uganda.

Kampala, June 19, 2026 – The Deputy Solicitor General, Mr. Charles Ouma, has challenged graduates of the Law Development Centre (LDC) to use their legal training, technology, and alternative justice mechanisms to build a more responsive and justice-centered Uganda.

Speaking on behalf of the Attorney General during the 53rd Graduation Ceremony of the Law Development Centre in Kampala today, Mr. Ouma congratulated the graduands on reaching a significant milestone in their legal education journey and urged them to embrace the responsibility that comes with their training.

Held under the theme, “Empowered to Build a Justice-Centered Uganda through Law, Technology, ADR and Alternative Justice Systems,” the ceremony marked the graduation of a new cohort of legal professionals poised to contribute to Uganda’s justice sector and national development.

Mr. Ouma noted that while not all graduates would pursue careers as practicing advocates, the study of law equips individuals with values that transcend the legal profession.

“The study of law is intended to inculcate a sense of fairness, certainty and order within society. It prepares us for introspection into who we are as a people and how we want to relate to one another,” he said.

He emphasized that the country needs ethical and compassionate leaders who can promote justice, empathy, and social harmony. According to him, Uganda requires professionals who listen to the concerns of citizens, uphold the sanctity of life, and strengthen institutions that reflect the aspirations of the people.

Addressing the role of technology in the legal profession, Mr. Ouma encouraged graduates to embrace innovation and continuously update their knowledge in an increasingly digital world. Quoting the late Steve Jobs’ famous advice to “stay hungry, stay foolish,” he urged the graduates to remain lifelong learners.

However, he cautioned that technological advancement should always serve the broader goal of promoting justice.

“The use of technology should enhance efficiency, effectiveness and ethical practice. We must resist the temptation to misuse these tools and instead use them to improve access to justice because justice delayed is justice denied,” he said.

Mr. Ouma further reminded the graduates that technology should never replace human values and compassion in the administration of justice.

“At the core of these technological developments, we must never lose our humanity. No machine or technology should substitute our humanity,” he added.

The Deputy Solicitor General also highlighted Uganda’s growing emphasis on Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) and Alternative Justice Systems. He cited the National ADR Policy adopted by the Government of Uganda in February 2025, which seeks to reduce court case backlogs, lower litigation costs and localize access to justice through mediation, arbitration and reconciliation.

He observed that conventional litigation often promotes a “winner-takes-all” approach that may not always foster social harmony, whereas alternative justice mechanisms offer opportunities for reconciliation and sustainable dispute resolution.

“It is through how we execute our mandate as leaders, lawyers, advocates and judicial officers that society will remember us. Let us promote a legacy of social accord and peace within our communities,” he said.

Mr. Ouma concluded by congratulating the graduates and wishing them success as they embark on the next chapter of their professional and personal lives.

The 53rd Graduation Ceremony celebrated the achievements of hundreds of graduates who have completed various legal training programmes at the Law Development Centre, reaffirming the institution’s commitment to producing legal professionals equipped to advance justice in a rapidly evolving society.

Kampala, Uganda, 11 June 2026 – The Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs (MoJCA) held a handover ceremony at the Ministry Boardroom, marking the official transition of leadership at the Attorney General’s Chambers from Hon. Kiryowa Kiwanuka to Hon. Sam Mayanja, who was recently appointed Attorney General of Uganda.

The ceremony was attended by senior Ministry officials, management and staff of the Attorney General’s Chambers, and leaders from the justice sector, who gathered to bid farewell to Hon. Kiryowa Kiwanuka and welcome Hon. Sam Mayanja to the constitutional office of Attorney General.

Speaking during the ceremony, the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Robert Kasande, congratulated both the incoming and outgoing Attorney General and highlighted the significant achievements registered by the Attorney General’s Chambers over the past five years. He noted that under Hon. Kiryowa Kiwanuka’s leadership, the Chambers had undergone considerable institutional growth, including the commencement and completion of the JLOS Towers project within four years and two months.

Mr. Kasande further revealed that the Ministry’s legal staffing structure had been expanded from approximately 180 attorneys to about 500 positions, strengthening the institution’s capacity to provide legal services to Government. He also cited the establishment of regional offices in Kabale, Masaka, Lira, Iganga and Hoima as a major step towards bringing legal services closer to clients across the country.

He commended Hon. Kiryowa Kiwanuka for his instrumental role in these achievements and pledged the continued support of the technical team to build upon the foundation already established.

The Solicitor General paid tribute to the outgoing Attorney General for his distinguished service and exceptional leadership during his tenure. He noted that Hon. Kiryowa Kiwanuka had championed key reforms that strengthened the Attorney General’s Chambers in its role as Government’s principal legal advisor and representative in courts, arbitral tribunals and negotiations.

He further thanked the outgoing Attorney General for his mentorship, professionalism and commitment to improving standards within the institution, describing his tenure as one that would leave a lasting legacy for the Chambers.

The Deputy Attorney General, Hon. Jackson Kafuuzi, who worked alongside Hon. Kiryowa Kiwanuka for five years, praised his diligence, dedication and commitment to public service. He noted that the outgoing Attorney General had executed his responsibilities with distinction and had established high standards that would continue to guide the institution.

Welcoming the new Attorney General, the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, Hon. Norbert Mao, congratulated Hon. Sam Mayanja upon his appointment and assured him of the Ministry’s full support. He described the Attorney General’s Chambers as a critical constitutional institution and emphasized the importance of teamwork in advancing Government’s legal mandate.

Hon. Mao commended the attorneys of the Chambers for their efforts in defending Government’s interests and encouraged the incoming Attorney General to work closely with the team while taking advantage of the strong institutional structures already in place. He described Hon. Mayanja as an accomplished scholar, intellectual and advocate whose passion and commitment would serve the institution well.

In his farewell remarks, Hon. Kiryowa Kiwanuka reflected on his five years of service as Attorney General and expressed gratitude to the staff and leadership of the Ministry for their support throughout his tenure.

“Public office is a temporary stewardship entrusted to us by the Constitution and the people of Uganda. We serve not for personal legacy, but for the strengthening of institutions, the rule of law and national development,” he said.

He noted that the Attorney General’s Chambers occupies a unique position at the intersection of law, governance, policy and national interest, and emphasized the importance of ensuring that Government actions remain grounded in legality, constitutionalism, fairness and institutional integrity.

Hon. Kiryowa Kiwanuka thanked the staff of the Chambers for their dedication and professionalism and encouraged them to continue striving for excellence in service delivery. He assured the incoming Attorney General of his support whenever called upon.

Taking office, Hon. Sam Mayanja expressed appreciation for the confidence entrusted in him and pledged to build on the progress achieved by his predecessor. He acknowledged Hon. Kiryowa Kiwanuka’s contribution to the institution and the legal profession, noting that he was honoured to continue from the strong foundation that had been laid.

Hon. Mayanja pledged to work closely with the management and staff of the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs and the wider legal fraternity to safeguard Government’s interests and advance the constitutional mandate of the Attorney General’s Chambers.

The handover ceremony was followed by a sendoff dinner held at the Kampala in honour of Hon. Kiryowa Kiwanuka, celebrating his five years of service as Attorney General. The evening featured live band music, tributes and speeches of appreciation from staff and leadership of the Attorney General’s Chambers, who commended his stewardship, mentorship and contribution to strengthening and transforming the institution.

The occasion also provided an opportunity for colleagues and partners to bid him farewell and wish him success in his new role as Minister of Defence and Veteran Affairs. A toast was raised to new beginnings as Hon. Kiryowa Kiwanuka delivered his farewell remarks, expressing gratitude for the support he received during his tenure and reaffirming his commitment to the continued advancement of public service and the rule of law in Uganda.

Today marked a significant milestone for the justice sector in Northern Uganda as the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs (MoJCA) officially opened the Lira Regional Office in Lira City, bringing vital legal services closer to the people of Lango and the surrounding regions.

The newly established office will offer key services including those of the Attorney General, Administrator General, Law Council, Civil Litigation, and Legal Advisory. The opening reflects government’s continued commitment to decentralization and improving access to justice through efficient, timely, and people centered legal services.

Speaking during the launch, Dokolo District Chief Administrative Officer representative, Moses Otim, welcomed the establishment of the office, describing it as a timely intervention for local governments and the wider Lango community.

“The people of Lango know their rights, they exercise them, and they always require timely feedback. Therefore, the decision to bring this office closer to the region is highly commendable,” he noted.

He emphasized the need for an open-door policy between local governments and state attorneys, encouraging dialogue and mediation before matters escalate into litigation.

“We pray for a working relationship where, before charges are placed, there is room for consultation, mediation, and possible resolution. This office will greatly reduce unnecessary court litigation and ease the burden of moving legal teams across different regions,” he added.

Mr. Otim further expressed optimism that the office would strengthen local governments’ legal capacity, particularly in handling pending cases that had previously suffered due to limited legal support.

Deputy Solicitor General, Charles Ouma, described the opening of the Lira Regional Office as “the birth of a new chapter” in the Ministry’s decentralisation agenda.

“This is a memorable day. A baby has been born in Lira; the Lira Regional Office,” he remarked.

He commended Elizabeth Nyakwebara for her longstanding service in overseeing the vast Gulu jurisdiction, which previously covered parts of Bunyoro, Lango, and Acholi.

“With the creation of this office, there will be substantial relief to the Gulu office,” he said.

Mr. Ouma explained that the regionalization journey traces back to the 1995 Ugandan Constitution’s decentralisation policy. By the end of the financial year, the Ministry aims to have established 12 regional offices across the country, including Mbarara, Arua, Kabale, Moroto, Hoima, Gulu, Mbale, Iganga, Lira, Fort Portal, Soroti, and Masaka.

He noted that previously, a single regional office served up to 25 districts, leading to delays, high transport costs, and slow turnaround times. The new offices are expected to improve efficiency and accessibility.

Addressing stakeholders, he underscored the importance of collaboration between public institutions and private practitioners in ensuring justice delivery.

“This is a symbiotic relationship. If we are not functioning efficiently, then the courts are also affected. Let us continue working together for the good of our country,” he said.

Mr. Ouma also encouraged the Lira team to embrace diligence and prioritize Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR), urging legal officers to promote dialogue before resorting to court action.

Addressing the audience, the Chief Guest and Resident Judge of the High Court in Lira, Sarah Birungi, applauded the Ministry for expanding legal services to the region, describing the office as long overdue.

“Over time, the Judiciary has expanded its services to the grassroots, but this has not been fully effective without the presence of other justice sector stakeholders. This is therefore a very commendable step by MoJCA,” she stated.

Justice Birungi expressed confidence that the establishment of the office would improve legal representation, consultations, and timely justice delivery for the people of Lango.

“Litigants will now have easier access to consultations, effective representation in courts, and timely justice. This office brings services closer to the people and helps them achieve what they are entitled to,” she said.

She further observed that many court cases involving government institutions had suffered delays due to prolonged consultations, a challenge she believes will now reduce significantly with the presence of the regional office.

Calling upon the people of Lango to actively utilize the office, Justice Birungi encouraged local leaders and litigants to work closely with the legal officers to ensure effective service delivery.

“The Judiciary cannot stand alone. It requires collaboration with other stakeholders. With the presence of the Attorney General’s office in the region, justice will now be delivered more efficiently, effectively, and timely,” she added.

The opening of the Lira Regional Office signals a new era for access to justice in the Lango sub-region, with leaders optimistic that the office will strengthen legal service delivery, reduce case backlogs, promote mediation, and improve coordination among justice sector institutions.

Under Secretary, Mr. Moris Muhindo, met with Heads of Unit and staff under the Department of Finance and Administration (F&A). He appreciated the staff for the warm welcome accorded to him upon assuming office and commended the various offices for the efforts made to ensure his smooth transition and comfort in his new role.

He called upon all staff and offices to extend maximum cooperation in order to execute work more efficiently and effectively. He emphasized the importance of teamwork, coordination, and unity in ensuring timely completion of assignments and improved service delivery.

Mr. Muhindo further stressed the importance of attendance to duty, citing the provisions of the Public Service Standing Orders regarding official working hours. He noted that adherence to duty schedules is a key responsibility of every officer and the basis upon which employees earn their monthly salaries.

He also emphasized proper time management, noting that although emergencies may occasionally arise, habitual lateness affects workflow and delays completion of assignments. He encouraged staff to manage time effectively in all duties and responsibilities entrusted to them.

The Under Secretary underscored the importance of completing assigned work within the stipulated timelines and meeting deadlines. He explained that timely delivery of assignments enables other officers and departments to effectively execute their own responsibilities. He further reminded staff that the Client Charter provides for a maximum response period of seven days when serving or responding to clients, making adherence to deadlines very important.

Regarding attendance management, he informed staff that as arrangements are underway to operationalize the biometric clock-in system, all staff should continue signing the manual attendance register provided at the reception.

He also encouraged staff to continuously adhere to the Public Service Code of Conduct and Ethics while executing their duties.

In conclusion, Mr. Muhindo pledged his commitment to supporting all staff in the execution of their duties. He encouraged officers to freely reach out to him for consultation, guidance, and constructive advice whenever necessary.

The Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs (MoJCA) officially opened the Attorney General’s Chambers in Masaka District, marking a significant milestone in its ongoing efforts to decentralize justice services and bring them closer to the people.

Located at Plot 46 Bukoba Link, Masaka–Kyotera Road, New Kumbu, the new Chambers will serve the Masaka High Court Circuit, reducing the logistical challenges that have long affected service delivery in the region.

The establishment of the Chambers will significantly improve efficiency in the administration of justice. With State Attorneys now based within close proximity to the court, the justice system will benefit from timely court appearances, improved case preparations, quicker instructions, and more effective participation in mediation.

Speaking at the commissioning, the Guest of Honour, Hon. Justice Victoria N. Katamba, Senior Resident Judge at the Masaka High Court, highlighted the impact of distance on justice delivery. She noted that delays in proceedings, missed hearing dates, and stalled mediation sessions have often been the result of logistical constraints rather than lack of diligence.

“The presence of the Attorney General’s Chambers within the court circuit will ensure a more responsive, efficient, and present justice system,” she noted.

The Chambers will support a wide range of government legal functions, including civil litigation, legal advisory services, and representation of the State in court. This will also facilitate prompt filing of pleadings, consistent representation of government, early resolution of disputes involving the State, and protection of taxpayers’ interests.

The Masaka High Court Circuit serves a vast jurisdiction of approximately eleven districts, making coordination among justice sector stakeholders essential. The presence of the Chambers is expected to strengthen collaboration among judicial officers, State Attorneys, law enforcement agencies, probation services, and other actors within the justice system.

This development is part of the Ministry’s Strategic Plan 2025–2030, which prioritizes expanding service delivery through regionalization. The opening of the Masaka Chambers complements the rollout of new regional offices across the country, including Kabale, Hoima, Iganga, and Lira, in line with the Ministry’s commitment to strengthening access to justice nationwide.

The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that justice services are accessible, efficient, and responsive to the needs of all citizens.

The Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs (MoJCA) has officially opened its Kabale Regional Office, marking a significant milestone in its ongoing efforts to decentralize justice services and bring them closer to the people.

Located at Plot 25, Jackson Road, Makanga in Kabale Municipality, the new office will serve the Kigezi Region, reducing the need for residents to travel long distances to access legal services. Previously, clients from the region depended on the Mbarara Regional Office.

The Kabale Regional Office will provide a full range of services, including legal advisory services, civil litigation, legislative support, management of succession matters, public trustee services, and regulation of legal practice and education. The move is expected to improve access to justice, promote timely resolution of disputes, and support social and economic development in the region.

The launch forms part of the Ministry’s Strategic Plan 2025–2030, which prioritizes expanding service delivery through regionalization. The Chief Justice, who presided over the commissioning, noted that the new regional hub will help address longstanding challenges such as distance and bureaucracy, while enhancing efficiency in legal service delivery.

The presence of the Attorney General’s Chambers in Kabale is expected to facilitate prompt filing of pleadings, ensure consistent representation of government in court, and promote the early resolution of disputes involving the State, and protecting the interests of tax payers.

The Kabale office becomes the eighth regional office, building on the Ministry’s existing presence in Gulu, Soroti, Mbale, Arua, Mbarara, Fort Portal, and Moroto. It is also the first of five new offices being rolled out, alongside Hoima, Masaka, Iganga, and Lira, in line with the Ministry’s commitment to strengthening access to justice nationwide.

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.