Christian lawyers’ convocation brings together world’s legal fraternity

Over 500 Christian lawyers, judges, government officials, pastors and students from all over Africa, USA and Europe, converged in Kampala for the 15th Advocates for Africa Biennial convocation.

The four-day conference ended on Sunday, July 30, at the Imperial Resort Beach Hotel in  Entebbe.

The convention was under the theme; Positioning the Christian Lawyer to Thrive Through a Volatile and Ambiguous World.

It intended to equip lawyers with the knowledge and skills they need to position themselves in this volatile and complex world.

The sessions were opened with morning devotions before delving into panel discussions, benchmarking and sharing real-life experiences on different work-related topics.

Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa being received at the convocation

The Uganda Christian Lawyers’ Fraternity (UCLF) hosted the convocation and participants came from Uganda, Kenya, South Sudan, Ethiopia, Nigeria, Ghana, Rwanda, USA, Britain and Australia.

Deputy Speaker Hon. Thomas Tayebwa who was the chief guest said, we live in a world where people are mocked for their integrity hence the need for virtuous leadership. He noted that all human beings are leaders by virtue of their existence.

“People think that being a leader is holding a position, but you being alive means you are already a leader,” he said.

Tayebwa also stressed the need to protect family and build it on strong values for strong communities.

First daughter, Pastor Patience Museveni Rwabogo, the Attorney General Rt. Hon. Kiryowa Kiwanuka, Justice Monica Mugenyi from the court of appeal, also graced the convocation.

Justice Mike Chibita, the UCLF patron, encouraged the audience to make money, however, he warned that it should not be the sole focus for a Christian lawyer. He urged them to prioritise service to God and humanity.

UCLF President Muhairwe delivering her speech

Anne T. Muhairwe, the UCLF president, appreciated the sponsors, partners, law firms and individuals who contributed to the success of the event.

She reminded Christian lawyers to prepare themselves for a future that is volatile, uncertain, complex and ambiguous. A future that demands them to be adaptable, resilient, creative and courageous. A future that challenges them to deepen their faith, sharpen skills and strengthen their collaboration.

 “We need to be equipped with the skills, values and vision to serve our society effectively,” she said adding that; “Our Christian faith is a motivation to seek justice and peace for all the people especially the marginalized and oppressed. We are the salt and light of the world, voice of the voiceless.”

Pastors received certificates

Minister Mao closed the convocation by commending UCLF for maintaining the strong foundation built by their founding president, late Charles Owor who based his work on biblical ethics and Godly principles.

He urged the Christian lawyers to be of high integrity to be able to resist the malpractices in the legal system. Mao reminded them to emulate Owor and Jesus such that they break the stereotype and worldview that lawyers cannot be Christians. This will help bridge the gap between God and His people.

About UCLF

It is an association of Christian legal professionals and it was started in 1986 as a fellowship of Christian law students. It was registered as an NGO in 2005 and has since grown to over 500 members who are working in the different facets of the Justice, Law and Order sector and the private sector.

The association subscribes to Advocates Africa, a network of Christian Lawyers’ Associations linking 43 African countries. It promotes democracy, religious liberty, good governance, the rule of law, accountability, social justice, economic transformation, conflict resolution, as well as promoting human rights.