Access to Justice: Mobile Courts Launched in Uganda

Kampala — Uganda’s Chief Justice, Flavian Zeija, has introduced a new justice delivery approach through the rollout of mobile courts, a move designed to extend judicial services to hard-to-reach communities across the country.

The initiative is backed by newly issued guidelines titled The Constitution (Operation of Mobile Courts) (Practice) Directions, 2026, which were officially gazetted on March 19, 2026. The framework is rooted in Article 133(1)(b) of the Constitution and allows courts to function beyond the confines of permanent court buildings.

Under this arrangement, judicial officers will conduct hearings in alternative venues including community centers, temporary setups, and specially outfitted vehicles. The strategy is aimed at addressing long-standing challenges such as distance, transport costs, and limited infrastructure that have hindered many Ugandans from accessing court services.

According to Justice Zeija, the Judiciary must embrace innovation to ensure that justice is not only fair but also accessible and efficient. He stressed that legal services should reach all citizens, particularly those in remote districts and refugee-hosting areas.

The directives apply to both the High Court and Magistrates’ Courts, with mobile sessions expected to handle civil and criminal matters using the same legal procedures followed in traditional courtrooms.

The Uganda Judiciary says the initiative forms part of its wider reform agenda focused on improving service delivery, enhancing transparency, and building public confidence in the justice system. It is also expected to ease case congestion and promote quicker resolution of disputes.

Authorities believe mobile courts will play a critical role in bridging the justice gap, especially in underserved regions such as islands and rural communities where access to legal services has remained limited.