Kawempe gets magistrate court
Although the court has been operational for two months, the March 3, 2025 event marked its official launch. The event was held under the theme: Enhancing Judicial Accountability and Access to Justice.
Principal Judge Dr Flavian Zeija presided over the launch of Kawempe Chief Magistrate Court in Kanyanya, Kawempe in Kampala city. (File photo)
Michael Odeng
Journalist @New Vision
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Principal Judge Dr Flavian Zeija has presided over the launch of Kawempe Chief Magistrate Court in Kanyanya, Kawempe in Kampala city.
Although the court has been operational for two months, the March 3, 2025 event marked its official launch. The event was held under the theme: Enhancing Judicial Accountability and Access to Justice.
The judicial officers and stakeholders in attendance included Zulaika Nanteza (deputy registrar alternative dispute resolution), Roseline Nsenge (Chief Magistrate Kawempe), Emmanuel Sserunjogi (Mayor Kawempe division), Hajji Njuki Mbabali (deputy Resident District Commissioner) and Badril Makumbi (Deputy Mayor Kawempe Division).
Nsenge thanked the top management for supporting the establishment of Kawempe Chief Magistrate Court and recognised the contributions of justice partners, including state attorneys and the Police, in enabling its operations.
She noted that in the two months of operation, the court has registered 330 cases, and with the addition of files from Nabweru Court, 150 cases have been concluded.
Nsenge emphasised that the court’s presence has improved access to justice, reducing the distance people have to travel to access court. She also highlighted the court’s adoption of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR), especially mediation and efforts to train local council leaders and police officers on legal matters.
Kanyanya LC1 chairperson Lawrence Bakirabe commended the Judiciary for bringing services closer to the community.
He also appreciated magistrates at the court for the work well done in the past few months, particularly their efforts in sensitising the public on court procedures. He called for more awareness programs on court initiatives.
Stakeholders from justice institutions, advocates, civic and political leaders, religious leaders, and members of the public turned up to witness the launch.
The court’s communications officer Deo Akiguzibwe, sensitised participants on the different initiatives in the Judiciary aimed at improving justice delivery. These included mediation, Plea Bargaining, Small Claims Procedure, among others.
Nanteza is moderating the event. She also sensitised participants on court processes and procedures.