President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has called on judicial officers to actively embrace Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) and other appropriate justice mechanisms as a way of improving access to justice and reducing pressure on courts.

In a speech delivered on his behalf by Vice President Rt. Maj. (Rtd) Jessica Alupo during the opening of the 27th Annual Judges’ Conference at Speke Resort Munyonyo, the President urged judges to guide parties towards mediation, reconciliation, and other non-litigation approaches before resorting to formal court proceedings.

He noted that prioritizing ADR would allow courts to focus more effectively on complex and serious cases, thereby improving efficiency within the justice system.

Museveni emphasized that Uganda’s long-standing traditions of community-based reconciliation align closely with the principles of alternative dispute resolution, adding that such practices are deeply rooted in the country’s social and cultural values.

The four-day conference, held under the theme “Judicial Wellness: A Tool for Effective Case Management,” has brought together judges and registrars from across the country to discuss strategies aimed at strengthening judicial performance.

President Museveni described judicial wellness as critical to effective decision-making and the overall quality of justice delivery.

He warned that delays in handling cases not only undermine public trust in the judiciary but also negatively impact economic growth.

He encouraged participants to use the conference as a platform to develop practical solutions to reduce case backlog, improve turnaround time, and restore public confidence in Uganda’s justice system.

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