KAMPALA, UGANDA — Uganda’s Supreme Court on Friday set a significant precedent by hosting the final of the 4th Firdaous Initiative for Academic Excellence (FIAE) International Humanitarian Law Moot Court Competition. This marked the first time the nation’s highest judicial body had served as a venue for such an event.
The landmark competition saw two leading Kenyan institutions, Moi University and African Nazarene University, argue a simulated case before the proposed African Court of Justice and Human Rights. Students were tasked with navigating intricate issues of International Humanitarian Law, showcasing their advocacy skills before a distinguished panel of judges.
Justice Mike Chibita of the Supreme Court, who presided over the final, emphasized the critical role of moot court in legal training. “Moot court is an essential tool for legal training. It puts you on your feet and prepares you for the realities of legal practice,” stated Justice Chibita, also a patron of Cavendish University, the event’s co-organizer. He encouraged participants to cultivate resilience and composure under pressure, traits vital for effective courtroom advocacy.
Aziz Abdulkareem, Director of FIAE, commended the high caliber of legal arguments presented. He reaffirmed FIAE’s commitment to advancing academic and practical legal education across Africa, noting, “We’re proud to offer platforms like this that help shape the next generation of legal thinkers and practitioners.” Abdulkareem also extended gratitude to Justice Chibita for his inspirational leadership.
Godfrey Ayeranga, a law lecturer representing the Dean of Cavendish University, described the event as a pivotal moment for legal education in Uganda. He thanked the Judiciary for granting young advocates access to its facilities and acknowledged Deputy Registrar of the Supreme Court, Elizabeth Akullo, for her coordination. “We don’t take this moment for granted, we count it as a blessing,” Ayeranga said.
The judging panel evaluated presentations based on legal analysis, depth of knowledge, clarity, and persuasiveness. The panel included Justice Chibita, FIAE Assistant Director of Programs Swaleh H. Wengo, Jane Bako Patricia from the International Committee of the Red Cross, and Tracy Nabbaale of the Women’s ProBono Initiative.
Moi University was ultimately declared the winner, receiving an award for excellence in legal advocacy. FIAE officials, legal academics, and students from the participating universities attended the event, celebrating this significant step in bridging legal education with practical courtroom experience.
