Rwanda will for the first time host the Commonwealth Magistrates and Judges Association (CMJA) conference, which aims to advance the administration of the law by promoting judicial independence, enhancing education in the law, and improving justice within the Commonwealth.

The conference will take place from September 8 to 12 under the theme "Environmental Justice”.

Speaking about the upcoming event, Chief Justice Faustin Ntezilyayo said, "We are delighted that Rwanda was chosen to host the 2024 CMJA Conference. The theme for the conference, Environmental Justice, is timely considering the three intertwined environmental crises—climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution—that the world is currently grappling with,” he stated.

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He noted that the conference would serve as a crucial forum for judges and magistrates to discuss various legal and institutional elements to enhance the administration of and access to environmental justice.

Networking and learning opportunities

Harrison Mutabazi, the spokesperson for the judiciary and the current president of the Rwanda Judicial Officers Association, highlighted the broader significance of the conference. He mentioned that the meeting aims to promote a better understanding among judicial officers of all ranks across the Commonwealth about judicial independence issues.

Additionally, the conference will explore different approaches to these issues in various Commonwealth regions and promote greater awareness of international treaties and laws related to justice.

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Mutabazi also pointed out that the conference will be a valuable learning experience for Rwanda’s judiciary, offering opportunities to learn from various systems countrywide, also the delegates will be able to know more about the country’s systems such as Gacaca, ADR (Alternative Dispute Resolution), and the Integrated Management of Case Systems (IMCS).

He expressed confidence that the event would further enhance the reputation of Rwanda’s justice system, which has already brought in international recognition.

Economic impact

The conference is expected to have a positive impact on Rwanda’s economy and image. Mutabazi noted that the event would bring international resources and expertise to the country, benefiting the judiciary and the broader economy.

He highlighted that over 20 Chief Justices and more than 400 magistrates and judges have already registered for the conference, showcasing Rwanda’s capability to host high-caliber events.

Mutabazi emphasised that hosting the conference is a prestigious achievement for Rwanda, affirming the country’s position as a leader in justice and judicial excellence within Africa.

Focus on environmental justice

Mutabazi reiterated that the 2024 CMJA Conference would feature discussions on various topics beyond environmental justice, including the use of case management systems to expedite justice, techniques to combat case backlogs, and strategies to fight corruption.

He said that as the theme of this year, Rwanda stands well in terms of environmental justice arguing that the country has environmental protection laws, supported by strong political will and legal frameworks.

"As Rwanda prepares to host this significant event, the country stands to benefit not only from the networking and learning opportunities but also from the positive recognition of its judicial system on a global stage,” he said.