KAMPALA, Uganda | In an effort to expedite mediation and clear the backlog of pending cases in the legal system, the Kampala Court of Appeal and Constitutional Court have started a two-week Case Settlement Fortnight.

This initiative, which runs until June 27, is a part of the Judiciary’s larger effort to promote Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) as a more effective, economical, and friendly way to administer justice.

With assistance from the UNDP, the case settlement fortnight is being held, and participating courts include the Court of Appeal, Family Division, Mukono High Court, and the Chief Magistrates of Mengo, Makindye, and Fort Portal.

At least 100 cases are anticipated to be mediated during the exercise at the Court of Appeal, according to Her Worship Jane Mugala, Deputy Registrar of Appellate Mediation.

“This Case Settlement Fortnight offers litigants a chance to resolve disputes without waiting for lengthy hearings. “It is not only faster but helps reduce pressure on the courts,” HW Mugala revealed.

The Court of Appeal’s Justices Richard Buteera (Deputy Chief Justice emeritus), Lady Justice Eva Luswata, and Jesse Byaruhanga are presiding over this week’s mediation sessions with 513 civil, family, land, and commercial cases already filed and expected to be heard. In the upcoming week, more judicial officers and certified mediators are anticipated to join the process.

According to Deputy Chief Justice Flavian Nzeija, the initiative’s goal is to expedite mediation as a means of resolving disputes outside of formal trials.

” This initiative is part of our broader commitment to reduce case backlog, promote amicable and timely dispute resolution and increase public trust in the justice system. The Judiciary hopes to resolve at least 300 cases of these during the fortnight. Zeija added, “…”

Zeija also said that even if your case was not selected during this fortnight, you are encouraged to request a referral for mediation through your court. Mediation is now part of regular case management.

”Settlement Fortnight is about restoring relationships, promoting reconciliation, and bringing justice closer to the people.” Nzeija noted