The Deputy Chief Justice, Justice Moses Kazibwe Kawumi, has urged judicial officers and court staff to prioritise their physical, mental, emotional and spiritual well-being, saying a healthy Judiciary is essential for delivering fair, independent and effective justice.
Justice Kazibwe made the remarks while representing the Chief Justice, Justice Dr Flavian Zeija, during celebrations to mark the International Day of Judicial Well-Being at the Judiciary Headquarters in Kampala.
He said the welfare of judicial officers directly affects the quality, efficiency and integrity of justice delivered to the public.
The event, held under the theme “Judicial Well-Being for Effective Justice Delivery,” started with a procession through Kampala City before participants engaged in aerobics, blood donation, free medical screening and wellness awareness sessions.
Justice Kazibwe noted that increasing workloads, heavy caseloads, exposure to traumatic cases, public scrutiny and strict deadlines have made it necessary for judicial officers to maintain good health in order to perform their duties effectively.
“A healthy, supported Judiciary is less vulnerable to corruption and external influence. Conversely, a stressed or burned-out judge is more likely to face health challenges that can affect judgment and decision-making,” Justice Kazibwe said, quoting Chief Justice Dr Flavian Zeija.
He explained that judicial well-being extends beyond physical fitness to include mental health, emotional resilience, professional growth, healthy social relationships and spiritual wellness.
According to Justice Kazibwe, maintaining personal well-being is not only an individual responsibility but also a key component of judicial independence and public trust in the justice system.
He highlighted several initiatives introduced by the Judiciary to support staff welfare, including weekly aerobics, health runs, counselling services, gym facilities, medical screening programmes and wellness training through the Judicial Training Institute.
The Deputy Chief Justice also acknowledged concerns raised by the Uganda Judicial Officers Association (UJOA) regarding improved medical insurance, better working conditions, transport, staff accommodation, digital tools and court infrastructure.
He assured judicial officers that the proposals would be considered within available resources.
“When judicial officers are healthy in body, mind, emotion and spirit, institutions become stronger, decisions improve and public confidence in the administration of justice grows,” Justice Kazibwe said.
Speaking on behalf of the Principal Judge, Lady Justice Olive Kazaarwe Mukwaya, encouraged judicial officers to avoid self-medication and seek professional medical attention whenever they fall ill.
She urged staff to make proper use of their medical insurance and prioritise regular health check-ups.
Chief Registrar Agnes Alum described the International Day of Judicial Well-Being as an important reminder that judicial officers and court staff operate under demanding conditions that expose them to stress and emotional pressure.
She encouraged staff to prioritise self-care and address wellness concerns before reaching burnout.
UJOA President Daphine Ayebare thanked Judiciary leadership, development partners and members for supporting the celebrations.
She reaffirmed the association’s commitment to improving members’ welfare through continued engagement on issues including remuneration, allowances and working conditions.
Ayebare also unveiled plans for initiatives such as a demonstration farm, a UJOA Rotary Club and a Judiciary Club aimed at strengthening members’ welfare and fellowship.
Health experts from the Ministry of Health and National Medical Stores used the occasion to educate participants on self-care, healthy lifestyles and the dangers of self-medication.
They encouraged judicial officers to seek professional medical advice and use medicines responsibly.