Chief Justice Alfonse Owiny Dollo, alongside other distinguished judiciary leaders, has been honored with a Master’s degree in dispute resolution and a certificate in international commercial arbitration by the prestigious Caruso School of Law at Pepperdine University in Malibu, California, USA.
The list of honorees includes Deputy Chief Justice Richard Buteera, Supreme Court Justice Mike Chibita, Minister for Justice and Constitutional Affairs Norbert Mao, Justice Geoffrey Kiryabwire, Justice Richard Wabwire Wejuli, Justice Paul Wolimbwa Gadenya, and former Uganda Law Society President Francis Gimara.
Pius Bigirimana, the Permanent Secretary of the Judiciary, emphasized the importance of this achievement, stating that it provides the Judiciary with a significant opportunity to reflect on the challenges it faces, particularly the surge in the number of cases in recent years. During the opening of the new law year in 2024, Chief Justice Dollo revealed a staggering increase in case numbers, from 23,958 in 2022 to 269,595 in 2023, highlighting the urgent need for reformative approaches in dispute resolution.
Mr. Bigirimana noted that with only 103 judges and justices, 78 court registrars, and 476 magistrates, the Judiciary is overburdened, facing a formidable challenge in addressing the escalating case backlog. He stressed the need to ensure the Judiciary has the necessary resources to fulfill its mandate effectively.
The rise in case registrations underscores the urgency for innovative approaches in dispute resolution. By adopting alternative dispute resolution (ADR) mechanisms such as mediation and arbitration, the Judiciary aims to alleviate the burden and promote timely and efficient dispute resolution. Pius Bigirimana drew inspiration from ancient justice systems that prioritized mediation and reconciliation for the harmony and sustainable development of communities.
Dr. Sukhsimranjit Singh, the Managing Director, and Danny Weinstein, Dean of the Straus Institute for Dispute Resolution, commended the graduates for completing their degrees with style and distinction, noting that they were the first ADR students from the entire African continent.
These degrees come at a pivotal time as Chief Justice Dollo spearheads ADR initiatives in Uganda to address the mounting case backlog. He has previously expressed his intention to concentrate on ADR upon retirement, citing its efficiency and timeliness.
Justice and Constitutional Affairs Minister Norbert Mao revealed that his office is actively working on an ADR policy. Once completed, he plans to present it to the cabinet for approval, aiming to establish ADR as a lawful and effective means of resolving disputes in Uganda, reducing reliance on traditional court processes.