Judiciary Holds 7th Benedict Kiwanuka Memorial Lecture

The 7^th Annual Hon. Chief Justice Benedicto Kiwanuka Memorial Lecture took place today at the High Court Headquarters in Kampala, bringing together key stakeholders from Uganda’s legal and justice sectors.

This significant event honors the legacy of Uganda’s first Chief Justice, Benedicto Kiwanuka, who was abducted by soldiers of the Idi Amin regime on September 21, 1972, and has never been seen since.

The theme of this year’s lecture, “Promoting a People-Centered Approach to Justice,” reflects the continued need for inclusive and accessible justice in Uganda.

Dr. Zahara Nampewo, a highly regarded legal scholar from Makerere University’s School of Law, served as the keynote speaker, focusing on ways to make justice more responsive to the needs of the people.

Representing President Museveni at the event was the Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Anita Annet Among.

The annual lecture not only commemorates the contributions of Benedicto Kiwanuka but also highlights the importance of preserving the rule of law and safeguarding human rights.

In his opening remarks, Deputy Chief Justice Richard Buteera emphasized the Judiciary’s commitment to adopting Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanisms to promote timely justice.

He said, "As we honor Chief Justice Benedicto Kiwanuka’s legacy, we resolve to use ADR to ensure a more people-centered approach in delivering justice to all Ugandans.”

A notable highlight of the event was the awarding of the Benedicto Kiwanuka Life Achievement Award to two esteemed figures in Uganda’s legal community: Justice Seith Manyondo, retired Deputy Chief Justice, and Justice James Ogoola, retired Principal Judge.

Both were recognized for their lifelong contributions to upholding the principles of justice and the rule of law in Uganda.

The Benedicto Kiwanuka Memorial Lecture has become an annual platform for reflecting on the importance of justice, human rights, and the legacy of one of Uganda’s most revered judicial figures.

Kiwanuka’s courage in defending justice, even at great personal risk, continues to inspire Uganda’s legal fraternity.