New programme to strengthen accessible, people-centred justice

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The new justice programme aimed at strengthening accessible, responsive, and people-centred justice in Uganda will today be launched at the residence of the Ambassador of Sweden to Uganda in Kololo, Kampala. 

The launch of the programme, funded by the International Development Law Organisation and other partners in Uganda, will be officiated by Chief Justice Dr Flavian Zeija and Justice Minister Nobert Mao. The event is also expected to be graced by several senior government officials and members of the diplomatic community.

The administration of justice programme in Uganda, aligned with the Fourth National Development Plan (NDP IV: 2025/26–2029/30), aims to enhance efficiency, reduce case backlogs and improve access to justice, particularly for vulnerable populations. 

Key initiatives include, for instance, digitising court processes, promoting alternative dispute resolution and strengthening legal aid.

The justice system is structured hierarchically from the Supreme Court (highest appellate) down to the magistrates’ courts.

It features a High Court with unlimited original jurisdiction, specialised divisions, and the Justice, Law and Order Sector (JLOS) aimed at enhancing access to justice. 

At the grassroots level, local council courts (LC Courts) operate to resolve minor disputes within communities. These courts handle cases related to land disputes, domestic issues, and other minor civil matters. They are informal and aim to provide accessible justice to the local population, particularly in rural areas.

An essential part of the judiciary, the Judicial Service Commission is responsible for appointing judges and other judicial officers, ensuring that the judiciary remains independent, competent, and ethical. It also handles complaints against judicial officers and promotes accountability within the judiciary.

Despite constitutional protections for rights and the rule of law, challenges include slow case resolution, limited rural access, and public perception of ineffectiveness.