The Southern and Eastern Africa Chief Justices’ Forum (SEACJF) Conference officially commenced today at the Speke Resort Munyonyo, Kampala, under the esteemed patronage of President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni. This significant gathering, hosted by the Judiciary of Uganda, unites Chief Justices from across Southern and Eastern Africa alongside notable figures from various government sectors, international organizations, and academia.
Delegates representing Lesotho, Eswatini, Angola, Botswana, Kenya, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, Seychelles, Uganda, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Tanzania have come together to discuss the vital intersection of justice and economic development.
In his opening address, President Museveni underscored the essential role of a robust justice system in fostering national prosperity. He urged Chief Justices to merge traditional African legal principles with contemporary practices to tackle the continent’s distinct challenges. He emphasized that integrating African legal systems into global frameworks is crucial for effective governance and societal growth.
The President advocated for an organic approach from African intellectuals—encompassing academics, technocrats, and legal experts—in addressing societal issues. He argued that a thriving economy not only provides necessary resources for judicial functions but also creates an environment where justice can flourish.
Additionally, President Museveni highlighted the need to combat societal tensions, often rooted in ignorance and superstition, through education and advancements in science and technology. He reiterated that progress in these areas is fundamental to enhancing managerial skills and wealth production, ultimately shaping the cultural and legal structures that drive societal development.
Justice Bheki Maphalala, Chief Justice of Eswatini and Chairperson of SEACJF, expressed gratitude to the Ugandan Government and Judiciary for their hospitality. He welcomed Chief Justices from South Sudan, Somalia, and Burundi, expressing hopes for their future participation as full members of the Forum.
Justice Maphalala outlined SEACJF’s mission—established in 2003 as a voluntary association promoting judicial independence, human rights, and access to justice. He emphasized the conference’s focus on safeguarding judicial independence and addressing the exploitation of Africa’s natural resources, calling for unity in leveraging these resources for local benefit.
Justice Alfonse Chigamoy Owiny-Dollo, Chief Justice of Uganda, warmly welcomed all participants and highlighted Uganda’s ongoing judicial reforms aimed at enhancing access to justice. These initiatives include expanding court services, combating corruption, and implementing technological advancements such as the Electronic Court Case Management and Information System (ECCMIS).
Justice Owiny-Dollo reaffirmed that access to justice is a fundamental human right essential for democracy, good governance, and socio-economic development. He expressed optimism that the conference would inspire collaborative strategies to tackle justice-related challenges across the region.
Justice Mike Chibita, Justice of the Supreme Court of Uganda and Chairperson of SEACJF’s Local Organizing Committee, highlighted the conference’s significance as a platform for exchanging judicial insights and experiences. He emphasized the importance of dialogue among judicial leaders to address common challenges and adapt to emerging trends, particularly in specialized courts and judicial appointments.
As the conference unfolds, it aims to foster a spirit of collaboration and innovation in the pursuit of justice throughout Southern and Eastern Africa, ultimately contributing to the broader goals of economic growth and societal well-being.
