Kerry Howard Mwesigwa.
KAMPALA, December 04, 2023 | The Munyonyo Commonwealth Resort in Kampala is abuzz with intellectual fervor as the 20th East African Magistrates’ and Judges Association (EAMJA) Conference commences, drawing together over 300 judges and magistrates from the East African Community (EAC) member states. Under the theme “Harmonising the Best Practices of Judiciaries in East Africa,” the conference, hosted by the Judiciary of Uganda, is set to span from December 4th to 8th, 2023.
Established in 2001, EAMJA stands to promote regional cooperation, dedicated to fostering the rule of law and ensuring accessible justice for all. This year’s conference, supported by the Commonwealth Magistrates’ and Judges’ Association (CMJA) and the Justice Law and Order Sector (JLOS) of Uganda, provides a unique platform for judicial officers to exchange experiences, address challenges, and showcase best practices in justice delivery.
The six member states of the EAC—Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, and South Sudan—are well represented at the event, signifying a commitment to the collective advancement of the region’s judiciaries. The conference tackles a spectrum of issues, including the independence and accountability of the judiciary, administration of justice, protection of human rights, integration of customary law, management of cross-border disputes, and the implementation of the EAC Treaty and Protocols.
The ambiance at the conference is one of camaraderie and shared purpose, as judges and magistrates engage in fruitful discussions, fostering a sense of unity and shared responsibility. The exchange of ideas and experiences not only enriches the individual capacities of the participants but also contributes to the overall strengthening of the East African judicial landscape.
