Uganda’s Judiciary has received national recognition from Public Opinion, a leading field-based research organization, for its continued efforts in transforming the administration of justice through innovative reforms aimed at improving efficiency, transparency, and access to justice.
The recognition highlights several landmark initiatives undertaken by the Judiciary, notably the Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanism and the Electronic Court Case Management Information System (ECCMIS), both of which have significantly contributed to reducing case backlog and enhancing service delivery across the country.
According to Judiciary Permanent Secretary Dr. Pius Bigirimana, Alternative Dispute Resolution is one of the most effective tools in addressing delays in the justice system. The approach, which was championed by President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni and strongly promoted by former Chief Justice Alfonse Owiny-Dollo, emphasizes mediation, reconciliation, plea bargaining, and restoration of harmony among disputing parties.
Dr. Bigirimana described ADR as a justice model deeply rooted in African traditions and values, noting that it has the potential to drastically reduce case backlog while promoting peaceful conflict resolution.
To strengthen the initiative, he revealed that the Judiciary is incorporating mediation rooms in all newly constructed court facilities and is committed to providing funding for the training and accreditation of mediators already deployed across various courts. He emphasized that mediation services remain free of charge since the Judiciary meets the costs of accredited mediators.
Another reform that has attracted widespread praise is the Electronic Court Case Management Information System (ECCMIS), a digital platform designed to automate court processes and improve case tracking.
Dr. Bigirimana played a pivotal role in the implementation of the system after overseeing the signing of the contract that led to its rollout. Since its launch in October 2021, ECCMIS has transformed court operations by reducing physical interactions, minimizing opportunities for corruption, and improving transparency and accountability.
Judiciary records indicate that since the introduction of the system, the case filing rate has increased by 20.6 percent, while the average case completion rate has risen by 17.5 percent. These improvements have enhanced efficiency in case management and contributed to creating a more favorable environment for investment and economic growth.
Legal experts and economists have long argued that an efficient judicial system is critical for attracting both local and foreign investment. Globally, billions of dollars remain tied up in arbitration and commercial disputes, and Uganda is no exception.
Recently, the Chief Justice revealed that approximately Shs7 trillion remains locked in commercial court cases, a situation that affects business operations, capital circulation, production, and job creation. Stakeholders believe that reforms such as ADR and ECCMIS will help unlock such resources and stimulate economic activity.
Beyond ADR and ECCMIS, the Judiciary has undertaken several other reforms aimed at improving service delivery and strengthening public confidence in the justice system.
Among these initiatives are enhanced anti-corruption measures through the strengthening of the Inspectorate of Courts, the introduction of toll-free reporting lines, and the installation of surveillance cameras in judicial facilities.
The Judiciary has also invested heavily in infrastructure development, including the construction of the twin-tower buildings that will house the Supreme Court and Court of Appeal, as well as the establishment of regional court facilities.
In a move aimed at bringing justice closer to the people, magisterial areas have increased from 82 to 157, ensuring that every district is now headed by a magistrate. This expansion has significantly improved access to judicial services, particularly in rural and underserved communities.
Other reforms that have improved case management include the Small Claims Procedure, special court sessions, and various administrative innovations designed to accelerate the disposal of cases.
Observers note that these reforms align with the government’s broader vision of social and economic transformation and support Uganda’s aspirations under Vision 2040.
As the country pursues ambitious economic growth targets, including achieving a GDP of $500 billion within the next 15 years, the Judiciary is expected to play a central role by ensuring a fair, efficient, and predictable legal environment that supports investment, business growth, and national development.
With continued modernization and institutional reforms, Uganda’s Judiciary is increasingly positioning itself as a key pillar in the country’s journey toward sustainable development and prosperity.
