In a major boost to Uganda’s justice system, the Judiciary has officially opened five new High Court Circuits, bringing justice services closer to people across the country. The newly operational circuits in Entebbe, Kumi, Lugazi, Patongo, and Wakiso increase the total number of High Court Circuits to 29 nationwide, marking a significant step in the Judiciary’s efforts to improve access to justice.

Chief Justice Alfonse Chigamoy Owiny-Dollo announced that judges have already been deployed to these new circuits, which were gazetted in 2023. He emphasized that this expansion reflects the Judiciary’s strong commitment to reducing case backlogs and making justice more accessible to all Ugandans. “This development shows our firm resolve to reduce the burden on existing courts and serve the public more effectively,” the Chief Justice stated. He further revealed plans to open additional circuits in Ibanda, Ntungamo, Moyo, and Rakai in the coming financial year.

The Acting Chief Registrar, Pamella Lamunu Ocaya, confirmed that all registries for the new courts are fully functional and ready to receive case filings. She explained that cases falling within the jurisdiction of these new circuits can now be filed directly at their respective locations. This is particularly significant for Entebbe and Wakiso, where cases were previously handled by the High Court Divisions but will now be managed locally. “This change will create a more streamlined and accessible process for litigants,” Lamunu noted.

To modernize court operations, Entebbe and Wakiso circuits have been equipped with the Electronic Court Case Management Information System (ECCMIS). This digital system allows for electronic filing of cases, digital case management, and virtual hearings where appropriate, significantly improving efficiency in court processes. The introduction of this technology is expected to reduce delays and make the justice system more responsive to the needs of court users.

The Chief Registrar provided details about case transfers to the new circuits. For the Lugazi Circuit, case files originally filed under the Mukono High Court have been transferred to the new court. Similarly, the Soroti High Court has transferred relevant cases to the Kumi Circuit, while the Kitgum High Court has sent applicable cases to the new Patongo Circuit. These transfers are designed to ensure cases are handled in their proper jurisdictions, bringing justice administration closer to where people live and work.

This expansion comes at a crucial time when many Ugandans have faced challenges accessing justice due to long distances to court and case backlogs. By decentralizing High Court services, the Judiciary aims to reduce the time and cost burden on litigants, particularly those from rural areas who previously had to travel long distances to access High Court services. The establishment of circuits in areas like Patongo and Kumi is especially important for bringing justice services to regions that have historically been underserved.

Legal experts have welcomed this development, noting that it will help address case congestion in the existing courts while improving the quality of justice delivery. The proximity of courts to communities is expected to encourage more people to seek legal redress for their grievances, knowing that justice services are now more accessible.

As the new circuits begin operations, the Judiciary has assured the public that all necessary measures have been put in place to ensure smooth service delivery. Court users in the affected areas can now file cases directly at their local circuits rather than traveling to more distant High Court locations. This change is particularly beneficial for vulnerable groups, including women, children, and people with disabilities, who often face additional challenges in accessing justice services.

The expansion of High Court Circuits is part of the Judiciary’s broader transformation agenda, which includes infrastructure development, case management reforms, and the integration of technology in court processes. These reforms aim to create a justice system that is efficient, accessible, and responsive to the needs of all Ugandans.

With these five new circuits now operational, attention turns to the planned expansion to additional regions in the coming financial year. The Chief Justice’s announcement about future circuits in Ibanda, Ntungamo, Moyo, and Rakai suggests that the Judiciary is committed to continuing this expansion until High Court services are within reasonable reach of all citizens across the country.

As the new circuits settle into their operations, court users are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the changes in jurisdiction and filing procedures. The Judiciary has pledged to provide public education about these changes to ensure smooth transition and maximum benefit from the expanded court services. This landmark expansion represents a significant milestone in Uganda’s journey toward a more accessible and efficient justice system for all.