Senior Magistrate Farida Ikyimaana has called on members of the public to embrace Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) as an effective and timely way of resolving disputes while promoting harmony within communities.
Ikyimaana made the remarks during a sensitisation drive on court processes and procedures held at Wakiso Chief Magistrates Court, which drew a large turnout of court users and members of the public.
The engagement was organised by the Judiciary’s Registry of Communications and Public Relations as part of ongoing efforts to create awareness about court operations, Judiciary innovations, and the different avenues through which citizens can access justice services.
The activity forms part of a wider nationwide initiative aimed at bridging the information gap between courts and court users while strengthening public confidence in the justice system.
Addressing participants on Wednesday, Ikyimaana guided the public on the jurisdiction of the court and encouraged communities to better understand how the justice system operates.
“Please listen closely, take this knowledge to heart, and most importantly, embrace ADR,” she told participants, noting that Alternative Dispute Resolution promotes timely justice and community harmony.
She also underscored the importance of collaboration among court staff and justice sector institutions, including the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, Uganda Police Force, and Uganda Prisons Service in ensuring efficient delivery of justice.
Court users were further invited to attend the upcoming Court Open Day scheduled for May 26, 2026, at the Wakiso High Court.
Siena Owomugisha, a Magistrate Grade One, encouraged members of the public to actively participate in sensitisation engagements, saying such forums provide valuable insight into court operations and help citizens navigate the justice system more effectively.
Participants were later taken through various court procedures by Evas Kobusingye, a Client Service Officer from the Judiciary. Topics covered included mediation, plea bargaining, and procedures for bail refunds.
Information, Education and Communication materials were distributed to guide court users on their rights, court processes, and available services.
The engagement also featured a question-and-answer session during which members of the public raised concerns and received clarification on several court procedures.
The sensitisation campaign attracted court users, advocates, and other justice sector players, reflecting growing efforts to promote access to justice and strengthen public trust in the Judiciary.
Also in attendance was Frank Kwesigabo, Magistrate Grade One at Wakiso Magistrates Court.
The proceedings were moderated by Ruth Ashaba, senior communications Officer at the Judiciary.
