I (H/W Kyembe Karim, Atiak Magistrate Courts) had the privilege of attending the recently concluded Commonwealth Magistrates’ and Judges’ Association (CMJA) conference in Rwanda, a gathering of esteemed judicial minds from across the Commonwealth. The event brought together delegates from over 20 countries, including Uganda, to share knowledge, experiences, and best practices in the administration of justice.
The Ugandan delegation was led by Dr. Flavian Nzeija, the Principal Judge, and comprised distinguished judges and judicial officers from the High Court of Uganda. Notable attendees included Justice Olive Kazaarwe Mukwaya, President of the Uganda Judges’ Association (UJOA); Justice Nakachwa Dolo; Justice Anthony Wabwire; Justice Tadeo Asiimwe; and Her Worship Kastushabe Prossy from the Judicial Training Institute (JTI), among others.
Throughout the conference, various topics were discussed, including combating corruption in the judiciary, promoting judicial independence, and harnessing technology to improve access to justice. The plenary sessions and breakout groups provided valuable opportunities for delegates to engage in thought-provoking discussions and share insights from their respective jurisdictions.
One of the highlights of the conference was the plenary session chaired by Justice Lawrence Gidudu on “Fighting Corruption in the Judiciary.” His expertise and leadership in this area shone through, sparking a lively debate and inspiring collective action to address this critical challenge.
Other notable topics included “Judicial Integrity and Accountability” and “Innovations in Court Administration.” These sessions underscored the importance of maintaining the highest standards of integrity and exploring innovative solutions to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of judicial systems.
The CMJA conference also provided a platform for delegates to network and forge connections with their counterparts from other countries. The Ugandan delegation took full advantage of this opportunity, engaging in fruitful discussions and establishing valuable relationships that will undoubtedly enhance judicial cooperation and knowledge sharing in the region.
In conclusion, the CMJA conference was a resounding success, offering a unique opportunity for judicial officers from across the Commonwealth to come together and address common challenges. The Ugandan delegation’s participation, led by Dr. Flavian Nzeija, was a testament to the country’s dedication to judicial excellence and its commitment to upholding the principles of justice and the rule of law.
Written by
HW Kyembe Karim, Magistrate of Atiak Courts.
