Law Society Honors Justices Egonda-Ntende and Kiryabwire

Recognition of Pioneers in Digital Justice

Two esteemed justices, Fredrick Egonda-Ntende and Geoffrey Kiryabwire, have been honored with lifetime achievement awards by the Uganda Law Society (ULS) for their groundbreaking contributions to digital transformation and innovative approaches within the justice system. The awards were presented during the closing ceremony of the ULS's two-day digital transformation festival held at the Commonwealth Resort Hotel in Munyonyo on Friday, August 15.

Egonda-Ntende was acknowledged for his pivotal role in persuading the South African Legal Information Institute to assist Uganda’s Judiciary in establishing the Ugandan Legal Information Institute (ULII). This initiative has provided free access to legal information, including past court decisions, thereby enhancing transparency and accessibility within the legal framework.

Ellison Karuhanga, a seasoned lawyer who delivered the citations, highlighted that the lives of these justices exemplify how law, when applied with wisdom, can serve as both a shield and a sword. His words underscored the significant impact these individuals have had on the legal landscape of Uganda.

Geoffrey Kiryabwire received recognition for his efforts in promoting digital transformation through the advocacy for the introduction of the Electronic Court Case Management Information System (ECCMIS). Additionally, he is credited with introducing the small claims procedure, which has played a crucial role in improving access to justice across the country.

Other notable recipients of awards include David Sunday Kikabi, head of the Judiciary’s ICT department; High Court Judge Rosemary Bareebe; retired judge Henry Peter Adonyo; Prof. Bitange Ndemo; Prof. Venansius Baryamureeba; and journalist Ritah Kaggwa. Among them, Ndemo serves as Kenya’s ambassador to the Kingdom of Belgium and the European Union, while Baryamureeba is the chairperson of the board of directors of Uganda Technology and Management University (UTAMU).

In addition to the lifetime achievement awards, several other individuals and groups were recognized with digital excellence awards. These include the Judiciary ECCMIS technical committee, High Court Judge Immaculate Busingye, Joseph Ssenabulya, Dennis Rwatooro, Deputy registrar Dr Gladys Nakibuule Kisekka, grade one magistrate Jane Mugala, Jessica Chemeri, Elizabeth Akullo, Daniel Bwambale, Margaret Wagana, Winnie Naigaga, Marion Mangeni (R.I.P), Joel Wegoye, Julian Rweju, the acting director e-government services, and the court reporters’ association.

Embracing the Future of Justice

The event was attended remotely by ULS president Isaac Ssemakadde, who emphasized the society’s commitment to regaining its strength through new initiatives, particularly focusing on digital transformation. Mercy Kainobwisho, registrar general of the Uganda Registration Services Bureau (URSB), commended ULS for leading the transformative shift towards digital justice, ensuring inclusivity in the process.

In a keynote address, Bitange Ndemo stressed the importance of integrating technology into the administration of justice. He stated:

“Whether we like it or not, change is coming, and in truth, it is already here. Technology does not wait for our comfort, our politics, or even our laws. It advances at its own pace. Artificial intelligence and blockchain are not just changing the tools we use; they are changing the very foundations of our economies, our governance, and our trade."

Justice and Constitutional Affairs minister Norbert Mao praised ULS for organizing the digital transformation festival, highlighting its ability to demonstrate strong organizational skills and strategic action. He expressed the need for clear boundaries between the Judiciary, ULS, and technological advancements.

A Historic Celebration

The festival concluded with the presentation of a grand prize: a brand-new Mercedes-Benz, won by advocate Ronald Tharry Muhwezi. The event marked a significant milestone in Uganda's journey toward modernizing its judicial processes and embracing the power of technology to enhance justice delivery.

This celebration of innovation and dedication reflects the ongoing efforts to ensure that the legal system remains relevant, efficient, and accessible to all citizens. As the country moves forward, the contributions of these pioneers will continue to shape the future of justice in Uganda.