By Ejiku Justine, Firm B7 2023-24 cohort
The Law Development Centre (LDC) Lira Campus recently represented Uganda in the prestigious All Africa International Humanitarian Law Moot Competition held at Novotel Hotel, Nairobi, Kenya.
This vibrant event, sponsored by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), gathered law students from across Africa, providing a unique platform for participants to deepen their understanding of International Humanitarian Law (IHL) and to celebrate the diversity of our continent.
Representing Uganda, the Lira Campus team, comprised of Ejiku Justine, Ankunda Sheba, and Opifini Gabriella Adebua rose to the occasion, displaying exceptional dedication and intellectual prowess. The competition kicked off with a cultural exhibition, where teams showcased their nations’ rich traditions. Our team’s display added a Ugandan touch to this celebratory start, strengthening bonds through shared cultural pride.
The event featured four challenging preliminary rounds, during which we engaged in intense role-play sessions. These exercises simulated real-world scenarios involving alternative dispute resolution during armed conflicts and complex negotiations to secure humanitarian aid access. We faced formidable teams from countries like Nigeria and Kenya, each challenge sharpening our skills and strengthening our resolve. After an impressive show, we advanced to the semi-finals, where we faced Tanzania and emerged victorious. The grand finale against Zimbabwe was a hard-fought match, and although we narrowly missed the top spot, our team secured the runner-up position, a commendable achievement.
Beyond competition, the event fostered friendships, cultural exchange, and invaluable learning experiences. We engaged with law students and professionals from diverse African nations, sharing perspectives, legal insights, and our mutual passion for upholding humanitarian principles. Each moment was a testament to the power of unity, resilience, and intellectual collaboration across borders.
Our runner-up achievement was celebrated with both individual shields and a team award, symbolizing our dedication, teamwork, and the enduring spirit of Ugandan excellence. This experience has inspired us to carry forward the ideals of International Humanitarian Law and to advocate for peace, justice, and human dignity.
To my fellow students, let us remember that our education extends beyond classrooms and textbooks; it thrives in our interactions, our culture, and our shared values. This experience showed me that education isn’t only about grades or lectures, it is about the friendships, the adventures, and the passion that drives us forward. I encourage all of you to grab every opportunity like this that comes your way. Push yourself, believe in what you’re capable of.
Embrace opportunities for growth, collaboration, and the pursuit of excellence. Together, we can make meaningful contributions to our society and embody the ideals of justice, compassion, and unity.
