In a landmark event aimed at strengthening access to justice, the Judiciary of Uganda, in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), held its first-ever Court Open Day on Buvuma Island on Thursday.
The event, held at the Buvuma Magistrate’s Court grounds, was presided over by Deputy Chief Justice Dr. Flavian Zeija and brought together judicial officers, local leaders, and community members.
The purpose was to engage with court users, listen to public concerns, and raise awareness about the justice system.
Court Open Days are part of the Judiciary’s wider plan to make justice more accessible, especially in remote and underserved areas. In his address, Justice Zeija stressed the importance of bringing services closer to the people.
He highlighted several ongoing reforms, such as decentralizing the Court of Appeal, expanding High Court circuits, hiring more staff, adopting digital tools, and introducing mobile courts.
He also announced plans to assign Grade One Magistrates to every constituency and confirmed funding for new court buildings on Buvuma Island. Additionally, boats will be provided to help judicial staff travel more easily between islands.
“We want to reduce the distance and cost people bear when seeking justice,” Justice Zeija said. He also reminded judicial officers to remain professional, avoid corruption, and treat the public with respect.
Her Worship Lamunu Pamella Ocaya, the Acting Chief Registrar, praised the UNDP for supporting the initiative and emphasized that citizen feedback is key to creating a justice system that meets people’s needs.
Representing UNDP, Governance and Peace Team Leader Annet Mpabulungi Wakabi commended the Judiciary for reaching out to communities like Buvuma. She noted that the island’s remote location has long made access to justice difficult, often forcing residents to turn to informal systems.
“This effort reflects the global goal of leaving no one behind. It ensures even the most vulnerable groups—like women, youth, and the poor—get justice,” she said, pledging continued support from UNDP.
Local leaders welcomed the Judiciary’s outreach and urged faster improvements in court infrastructure and transportation. They said land has already been set aside for new court buildings and asked for reliable boats to ease movement for court staff and users.
Chief Magistrate of Lugazi, His Worship Mushebebe Moses Nabende, outlined several pressing issues facing the Buvuma Court, including lack of office space, poor infrastructure, limited staff, and inadequate transport and accommodation for court officials.
Residents echoed these concerns, citing the lack of frequent court sessions, life jackets for prisoners in transit, and banking services needed to pay fees or bail. Some also raised concerns over alleged police bond charges and mistreatment by army personnel at landing sites.
In response, Judiciary officials promised to follow up on the issues raised and committed to improving justice delivery on the island.
English 