The Chief Justice of Uganda, Flavian Zeija, has commenced a three-day official visit to courts across southwestern Uganda in a move aimed at strengthening justice service delivery and enhancing collaboration among key stakeholders in the justice sector.

According to the Judiciary, the tour will cover the High Courts of Kabale and Rukungiri, as well as Magistrates’ Courts in Kisoro, Rubanda, Rukiga, and Kanungu. The visit is intended to provide a platform for direct engagement with judicial officers, court users, and other stakeholders, while enabling the Chief Justice to gather firsthand feedback on the performance and challenges within the justice system.

The visit began at the Kisoro Chief Magistrate’s Court, where the Chief Justice was received by several judicial officers and administrative staff. Among those present were Karoli Lwanga Ssemogerere, Resident Judge of Kabale, Pamella Lamunu Ocaya, Acting Chief Registrar, and Patrick Bamuhiga, Chief Magistrate of Kisoro, along with other Judiciary officials.

Also in attendance was Pius Bigirimana, the Permanent Secretary and Secretary to the Judiciary, alongside representatives from government and security institutions, including the Uganda Police Force, the Uganda Prisons Service, and immigration authorities. Local leadership was represented by Resident District Commissioner Badru Ssebyala and religious leaders, including Godfrey Mbitse.

During the visit, the Chief Justice inspected a guard of honour mounted by the Uganda Police Force before touring court facilities, including chambers, archives, and courtrooms. The inspection is part of ongoing efforts by the Judiciary to assess infrastructure, working conditions, and operational efficiency within courts.

The engagement has attracted a wide range of stakeholders from across the justice sector and the public, reflecting the Judiciary’s emphasis on inclusive dialogue and transparency. Participants include legal practitioners, district officials, religious leaders, and members of the community, all of whom play a role in the administration and access to justice.

Proceedings are being moderated by Judiciary Public Relations Officer James Ereemye Jumire Mawanda, assisted by Ivan Busulwa. The discussions are expected to focus on identifying practical solutions to challenges affecting court operations and improving coordination among institutions within the justice system.

The Judiciary has indicated that such visits are part of broader institutional efforts to enhance service delivery, promote accountability, and ensure that justice remains accessible and efficient for all Ugandans.