Judiciary champions fitness to boost wellness and justice delivery

The Judiciary has been called upon to embrace sports and physical activity as a key element in maintaining both body and mind, essential for offering quality service to the public.

Speaking during the International Day for Judicial Wellbeing held at the High Court in Kampala and presided over by Supreme Court Justice Mike Chibita, Judiciary Permanent Secretary Pius Bigirimana emphasized the need to move beyond traditional courtroom duties and incorporate regular exercise into daily life.

“We train some of the finest legal minds, but physical wellness is equally crucial,” Bigirimana said. “Exercise stimulates white blood cells, strengthens the body’s defense against disease, and fosters inclusivity among staff. That’s why we must increase our days of physical activity beyond just Wednesday and Friday.”

Coach Robert Ssebugwawo, Daphine Ayebare and the Permanent Secretary (PS) and secretary to the judiciary, Dr. Pius Bigirimanzi, demonstrate workout routine to judicial officers. Photo by Richard Sanya

He cited a recent moment during a fitness session where Justice Chibita actively engaged with junior staff and drivers, a demonstration of how exercise breaks down hierarchies and promotes unity within the institution.

Bigirimana also praised fitness and wellness advocate Robert Ssebugwawo for his unwavering commitment to promoting a healthy lifestyle across the Judiciary.

Coach Robert Ssebugwawo and the Permanent Secretary (PS) and secretary to the judiciary, Dr. Pius Bigirimanzi, demonstrate workout routines to judicial officers at the inaugural International Day for Judicial Well-being. Photo by Richard Sanya

His sentiments were echoed by Justice Olive Kazaarwe Mukwaya, president of the Uganda Judicial Officers Association, who highlighted the direct link between judicial wellbeing and integrity.

“For years, this aspect of our professional lives was overlooked. But now we know—physical fitness is vital to our mental clarity and ethical conduct,” Kazaarwe said. “Our roles demand long hours—hearing cases during the day, writing judgments late into the night. Regular exercise helps restore balance and resilience.”

L-R Lady Justice Olive Kazaarwe Mukwaya, Justice Michael Chibita and Lady Justice Flavia Nabakooza at the helm of a judicial officer’s procession. Photo by Richard Sanya

Kazaarwe, also Vice President of the International Judges Association Uganda chapter, reaffirmed the Judiciary’s partnership with the Fitness and Wellness Fellowship of Uganda to champion year-round fitness initiatives not just for judicial staff, but for all Ugandans.

The event, themed ‘Transformative Wellness to Deliver People-Centred Justice’, underscored the importance of holistic wellbeing in the legal profession. Her Worship Daphine Ayebale reiterated that physical and mental health are non-negotiable for magistrates and judges in pursuit of fair justice.

L-R Lady Justice Olive Kazaarwe Mukwaya, Justice Michael Chibita and Lady Justice Flavia Nabakooza at the helm of a judicial officer’s procession commemorating the inaugural the international day for Judicial well-being. Photo by Richard Sanya

Lady Justice Olive Kazaarwe Mukwaya chats with the Permanent Secretary (PS) and secretary to the judiciary, Dr. Pius Bigirimana, as coach Robert Ssebugwawo looks on after demonstrating a workout routine to judicial fficers at the inaugural International Day for Judicial Well-being. Photo by Richard Sanya

Rotary Fellowship Fitness and Wellbeing Secretary Maureen Kawombe emphasized the importance of such programs for professionals in sedentary roles, while Mbowa Kirule noted their potential to inspire youth through leadership by example.

Closing the ceremony, Ssebugwawo urged Ugandans to take personal responsibility for their health. “Preventive wellness is leading the way. Embrace fitness, and don’t skip regular medical checkups,” he advised.