1. Introduction

The Justice, Law, and Order Sub-programme (JLOS) under the Governance and Security Programme (GSP) unites 18 institutions tasked with administering justice, maintaining law and order, and upholding human rights. The JLOS Secretariat, located within the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, coordinates these institutions to ensure a comprehensive approach to enhancing access to justice and the rule of law. JLOS’s mandate encompasses collaborative planning, budgeting, and reform across agencies such as the Ministry of Internal Affairs, the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, the Uganda Law Reform Commission, the Uganda Human Rights Commission, the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, the Police, the Prisons, and others, aiming to provide timely and equitable justice services to the public.

Effective communication is critical with JLOS overseeing numerous reforms and services in the justice sector. There is a need for a dedicated Resource Person for Communications and Public Relations to enhance JLOS’s visibility and public /media engagement. This Resource Person will ensure that information about JLOS reforms, policies, and services is communicated to citizens, increasing public awareness and trust in JLOS institutions. By improving outreach through media and public engagement, the Resource Person, Communications and Public Relations will support the JLOS Secretariat in informing the public about their legal rights, ongoing initiatives, and achievements, strengthening transparency and accountability in Uganda’s justice system.

2. Scope of Work

The Resource Person (RP) will develop and execute JLOS’s communication and public relations activities. Key areas of focus include:

• Media Relations: Build strong relationships with national and local media houses. This involves preparing press releases and media statements, organising press conferences, and serving as the primary media contact for JLOS. The RP will proactively seek favourable media coverage for JLOS programs and promptly address media inquiries or misinformation to ensure accurate reporting of JLOS initiatives. Regular engagement with journalists and press outlets will help keep JLOS activities in the public eye and enhance the sub-programme’s image.
• Content Creation: Develop high-quality content for various communication channels. This includes writing media briefs, drafting reports and policy briefs, and producing content for the JLOS website and newsletters, notably the JLOS Bulletin. The RP will update the JLOS website with news, success stories, and announcements. They will also create digital content (e.g., blog posts, infographics, and videos) and publications that highlight JLOS reforms, success stories, and services in a way that is accessible to the public.
• Public Awareness Campaigns: Design and implement public awareness campaigns to increase knowledge of JLOS reforms and services. This may involve multi-media campaigns (radio, TV, print, and social media) and community outreach activities to educate citizens about their legal rights and how to access various JLOS services. For example, campaigns might focus on legal aid, anti-corruption measures, or new laws. These efforts should align with broader recommendations for expanding public legal awareness in Uganda. The Communications and Public Relations RP will plan campaign messages, develop IEC (Information, Education, and Communication) materials, coordinate events (such as legal aid clinics or open days), and evaluate the impact of these campaigns on public knowledge and perceptions.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Coordinate communications with various JLOS stakeholders, including government bodies, civil society organisations, development partners, and the public. The RP will ensure consistent messaging and information flow between JLOS member institutions (courts, police, prosecution, etc.) and external stakeholders. This includes drafting official communications or briefing notes for inter-agency meetings, keeping partners informed about JLOS initiatives, and gathering feedback. By engaging stakeholders regularly, the Communications RP will help foster collaboration and a shared understanding of JLOS reforms.
• Branding and Visibility: Strengthen the JLOS brand and ensure its consistency across all communications. The RP will develop and enforce JLOS branding guidelines (logos, slogans, templates) so that all publications, presentations, and online content present a unified image across all JLOS member institutions. He/she will also work on visibility initiatives to raise the profile of JLOS – for example, producing brochures, banners, and promotional materials for JLOS events, both national and international. Ensuring brand consistency means every press release, social media post, or public document reflects JLOS’s vision and mandate, making the Sub-programme easily recognisable. The Communications RP will also advise JLOS institutions on co-branding and using the JLOS brand identity in their communications.

3. Key Deliverables

The Communications RP will be expected to produce the following deliverables to support JLOS’s communications objectives:

• Comprehensive Communication Strategy: Development of a sector-wide communication strategy for JLOS. This strategy should outline clear communication objectives, target audiences (e.g., public, legal professionals, development partners), key messages, and the mix of channels to be used (press, radio, social media, etc.). It should also include an implementation plan with timelines. The strategy will serve as a roadmap for all JLOS communication activities and ensure a coherent approach to public outreach. This deliverable will be a written document submitted for approval to the JLOS Secretariat leadership.
• Publicity and Visibility Plans: Creation of detailed publicity plans for major JLOS programmes, projects, and events. For instance, for any new justice reform initiative or annual JLOS Review, the RP will prepare a visibility plan describing how it will be publicised (press releases, media invitations, social media announcements, etc.) and what materials are needed (press kits, banners, etc.). These plans ensure that each key JLOS activity gains appropriate public and media attention. Additionally, an overarching visibility plan for JLOS branding (covering routine communications and presence at public forums) will be developed and updated annually.
• Monthly Press Briefings and Media Engagements: Organise and manage regular press briefings (at least once monthly) to inform the media about current Justice, Law, and Order Sub-programme developments. This includes preparing talking points or press statements for JLOS leadership, inviting media representatives, and moderating the briefings where required. The RP will also facilitate other media engagements such as one-on-one interviews, talk show appearances, and press tours of JLOS facilities or projects. A schedule of monthly media interactions, along with records of media coverage achieved, will be a key deliverable to demonstrate ongoing engagement.
• Social Media and Online Content Management: Continuously oversee JLOS’s social media presence and website content. This involves managing official JLOS accounts (such as Facebook, Twitter, and other relevant platforms) by posting regular updates, JLOS news, educational content, and responding to public queries or comments. The RP will ensure the content is current and engaging, including sharing success stories from JLOS institutions and information on how the public can access services. Deliverables will include a content calendar for social media, growth in followers/engagement metrics, and a well-maintained JLOS webpage with up-to-date information. Effective digital communication is a crucial part of this role.
• Quarterly Stakeholder Engagement Reports: Prepare quarterly reports summarising communications and engagement activities. These reports will be submitted to the JLOS Secretariat and shared with JLOS leadership and development partners to show progress in outreach efforts. Each report should detail the communications activities undertaken in the quarter (e.g., media events, campaigns executed, publications produced), media coverage analysis, social media and website analytics, and stakeholder feedback received. The report should also highlight upcoming communication plans and any challenges or recommendations. This deliverable will help JLOS monitor the impact of its communication efforts and guide future strategies.

4. Reporting Structure

The Communications RP will be integral to the GSP/JLOS Secretariat team and report directly to the Technical Advisor (E-Governance). The RP will receive strategic guidance in this reporting role and align their work with the JLOS’s e-governance and communication objectives. In consultation with the Senior Technical Advisor, the Advisor, E-Governance, will supervise the Resource Person’s work plans and deliverables, ensuring that communication activities support JLOS’s broader goals (such as digital access to justice and transparency initiatives). The Communications RP will also collaborate closely with other Technical Advisors and officers at the JLOS Secretariat and communication focal points in JLOS member institutions to gather information and disseminate messages effectively.

5. Required Qualifications and Experience

Candidates for the Resource Person, Communications and Public Relations position should meet the following minimum qualifications and experience:

• Education: A bachelor’s degree in communications, Journalism, Public Relations, Mass Communication, or a related field from a recognised institution. (A qualification in a relevant field - notably Law - provides an added advantage).
• Professional Experience: Minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in communications, public relations, or media work, preferably within the justice sector, government, or a related field. Experience working on communications in Uganda's multi-institutional or public sector program will be an asset.
• Media Relations and Content Development: Proven media relations and content development expertise. The candidate should have a track record of preparing press releases, engaging with journalists, and securing media coverage. Experience in writing and editing speeches, reports, and outreach materials is essential, demonstrating excellent command of the English language and the ability to tailor messages to different audiences.
• Public Engagement Skills: Demonstrated ability to plan and execute public engagement initiatives. This includes organising public events (press conferences, awareness campaigns, and workshops) and effectively communicating with diverse stakeholders (government officials and community members). Strong presentation and interpersonal skills are required to represent JLOS in public forums and stakeholder meetings.
• Digital Communication: Hands-on experience with social media management and digital communication strategies. The candidate should be adept at using social media platforms (Facebook, Twitter, etc.) to engage the public and should understand website content management. The ability to generate multimedia content (graphics, introductory video, or photography skills) and manage online campaigns will be beneficial.
• Sector Knowledge: Familiarity with Uganda’s legal and justice framework and understanding of JLOS institutions’ operations. The candidate should be knowledgeable about the justice system and current reforms or issues in Uganda’s Justice, Law, and Order Sub-programme, enabling him/her to communicate accurately and confidently about JLOS initiatives. Prior work experience or collaboration with justice sector institutions (courts, law enforcement, legal aid, etc.) is advantageous.
• Language and Communication Skills: Excellent proficiency in English (written and spoken) with superior writing, editing, and proofreading skills. The ability to produce clear, compelling content under tight deadlines is essential. Knowledge of widely spoken local languages in Uganda is an added advantage for tailoring messages to different communities, though not a requirement.
• Other Skills: Strong organisational abilities, creativity, and attention to detail. The Communications RP should be able to multitask and manage multiple communication activities simultaneously. They should possess a high level of professionalism, integrity, and confidentiality in handling information. Good teamwork and coordination skills are essential, as the role involves working with various teams and institutions across the sector.

6. Duration and Contract Type

This position is a full-time appointment with the JLOS Secretariat. The contract will be for an initial duration of three (3) years, subject to a probation period (as per government guidelines) and performance reviews. The contract is renewable based on satisfactory performance and continued need for the role.

7. Application Process

Interested candidates who meet the above requirements should apply by following these guidelines:

• Cover Letter: A cover letter (maximum one page) explaining your suitability for the position. The letter should highlight relevant experience and skills, demonstrate an understanding of JLOS’s mission, and state how you plan to contribute to enhancing its communications and public relations.
• Curriculum Vitae (CV): An up-to-date CV detailing your educational background, work experience, and any special skills or training in communications. The CV should include contact information and clearly illustrate the five years (or more) of relevant experience, including specific roles and achievements in previous communication positions.
• Work Samples: Samples of previous work in communications. Applicants should attach or provide links to at least two examples, such as press releases, articles, communication strategies, campaign materials, or any other relevant publications they have authored or developed. These samples will be used to assess the candidate’s writing quality and creativity in communication.
• References: Provide contact information for two (02) professional references who can attest to the applicant’s qualifications and experience. Ideally, one reference should be a supervisor from a recent communications-related position. (No reference letters are needed at this stage; contact details and a relationship to the candidate are required.)
• Submission: Applications should be submitted electronically to the Senior Technical Advisor, JLOS Secretariat, Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, Bauman House, Parliament Avenue, Kampala, via email at rodoi@jlos.go.ug (Copy to: ekuhimbisa@jlos.go.ug), with the subject line “Resource Person—Communications and Public Relations Application— [Your Name].”
• All applications must be submitted by 9^th May 2025 at 17.00 hrs.

Note: Only candidates who meet the minimum qualifications and submit a complete application (cover letter, CV, samples, and references) will be considered. The recruitment process will include an interview and may involve a written test or presentation to assess candidates’ communication skills. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further steps.

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This policy brief results from an eight-year partnership between The Hague Institute for Innovation of Law (HiiL) and the Access to Justice (JLOS) Sub-programme, aimed at driving people-centred justice in Uganda through data and innovation. It aims to inform justice leaders, development partners, legal aid providers, justice innovators, and civil society organisations about the justice needs of Ugandans.

Based on the 2023 Justice Needs and Satisfaction (JNS) survey, which gathered insights from 6,300 randomly selected Ugandans, this brief highlights prevalent legal issues among Ugandans, the impact those problems have in people’s daily lives, and the resolution strategies that people apply to their problems. The JNS survey follows the OECD's legal needs survey guidelines, emphasising people-centred justice — a methodology HiiL has implemented in 19 countries.

The findings were released in March 2024 at the data report launch event and a 'Justice Leaders’ Forum,' facilitating discussions among justice leaders and providers. This survey builds on previous studies conducted between 2016 and 2020, which influenced sectoral changes in Uganda's justice policies, including the Judiciary’s Alternative Justice System (AJS) strategy, the Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) policy, and the Democratic Governance Facility (DGF).

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KAMPALA - The Court of Appeal Justices Hellen Obura, Muzamiru M. Kibeedi, and Moses K. Kazibwe have concluded the hearing and disposal of criminal appeals at Masaka High Court. The Honourable Deputy Chief Justice, Richard Buteera, flagged off the session at an opening ceremony on 15th July 2024 with a clarion call to the actors involved in the criminal session, emphasizing the crucial role of recent precedents from the court in avoiding unnecessary delays in matters with settled jurisprudence.  Twenty-eight (28) Appeals were listed for hearing.

The Appeal Justices demonstrated their commitment to swift justice by delivering instant judgments in 24 of the 28 appeals listed, allowing all parties to leave the court with their signed judgments. This, along with the dismissal of four other appeals, resulted in a 100% case disposal in the session.

Two of the dismissed appeals involved cases in which the Appellant's prayer to set aside life sentences imposed by the High Court for murder and aggravated robbery was not granted. The appeals allowed mainly dealt with non-compliance with the constitutional requirement to deduct the pre-trial remand period.  The Honorable Justices exercised their powers under section 11 of the Judicature Act to re-sentence the appellants.

In a post-session meeting with stakeholders, the head of the panel, Honorable Lady Justice Hellen Obura, thanked the stakeholders for heeding the Chief Justice’s call and advice, which she stated had led to the results achieved. She also thanked the Senior Resident Judge of Masaka, Honorable Lady Justice Katamba Victoria Nakintu, and Deputy Registrar High Court Masaka, Her Worship Loe Karungi, for the support rendered. She further thanked the Magistrates, Research for extra hours writing legal briefs. The support staff were equally thanked for their role in facilitating the smooth flow of the session.

Justice Kazibwe thanked the lawyers for the quality submissions and said they reflected time and effort. Justice Kibeedi thanked the ODPP team for being “on top of their game” and called on the lawyers to invest in themselves, noting that there was always room to perform at their best.

Every year, the Embassy of Ireland, through the Ireland Fellows Programme – Africa, funds a number of scholarships for study at master’s level in Ireland. The focus of the scholarship is to attract dynamic, early to mid-career professionals with leadership potential, to benefit from a prestigious, world-class, quality education contributing to capacity building and expertise.   The aims of the Programme are to nurture future leaders, to develop in-country capacity to achieve national SDG goals and to build positive relationships with Ireland. 

This year, the Embassy would like to invite suitably qualified and experienced candidates who wish to apply to commence study in the academic year 2025/2026 in Ireland.  In order to qualify, candidates should have been awarded an undergraduate degree in 2013 or later (i.e. within the last 12 years). Where applicable, special consideration will be given to applicants working in disadvantaged regions, including Karamoja.

The application process consists of three stages.   Applicants should go to the Irish Aid Fellowship website at www.irishaidfellowships.ie where they will find the Stage 1 - preliminary application form and the 2025 - 26 Directory with eligible Postgraduate Programmes.  Stage 1 opens 1^st July 2024 and closes on 28^th July 2024.  Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted to apply to the second stage of the process.

Careful attention should be given to the eligibility criteria set out in the guidelines available on https://www.irishaidfellowships.ie/strands/ireland-africa-fellows-programme.

In addition to the above and in memory of Irish priest Fr Declan O’Toole, who died in Karamoja in 2002, the Embassy of Ireland is also offering two additional scholarships to candidates from Karamoja for study at Masters Level in Uganda.  Details on the Fr. Declan O’Toole Fellowship are on the Embassy of Ireland website https://www.dfa.ie/irish-embassy/uganda/our-services/opportunities-to-study/ .

The Fellowship Administrator can be contacted at kampalaembassy@dfa.ie to answer any questions you may have though we request that you first consult the website, where all relevant information is provided.

Vienna (Austria), 13 May 2024 – The 33rd session of the Commission on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice (CCPCJ) opened on 13 May 2024, bringing together Member States and other stakeholders to deliberate on various aspects of crime prevention and criminal justice, including along this year’s theme of “Promoting international cooperation and technical assistance to prevent and address organized crime, corruption, terrorism in all its forms and manifestations and other forms of crime, including in the areas of extradition, mutual legal assistance and asset recovery”.

As the main policy making body of the United Nations system in addressing crime prevention and criminal justice issues, the Commission plays a critical role in advancing collective efforts against national and transnational crime, while strengthening fair and effective criminal justice institutions.

Uganda's delegation at the 33rd CCPCJ is led by Justice Richard Buteera, Deputy Chief Justice and Head of the Court of Appeal of Uganda (Courts of Judicature).

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UGANDA'S DELEGATION TO THE 33RD CCPCJ (2024)

1. Hon. Justice Richard Buteera, Deputy Chief Justice and Head of the Court of Appeal of Uganda (Courts of Judicature) – Head of Delegation
2. Hon. Nobert Mao, Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs
3.  Lady Justice Jane Frances Abodo, Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP)
4.  Amb. Stephen Mubiru, Permanent Representative, Permanent Mission of Uganda to the United Nations Office in Vienna
5.  Mr. Pius Perry Biribonwoha, Deputy Solicitor General, Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs
6.  Amb. Eunice Kigenyi, Head of International Legal and Social Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs
7.  Amb. Dora Kutesa, Political Affairs Officer, Permanent Mission of Uganda to the United Nations Office in Vienna
8.  Dr. Josephine Ekwang Ali, Commissioner, Inspection and Legal Services, Ministry of Internal Affairs
9.  Mr. James Odumbi Were, Deputy Director of Public Prosecution, Directorate of International Affairs, Office the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP)
10.  Mr. John Baptiste Asiimwe, Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions, Office the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP)
11.  Mr. David Josip Bisamunyu, Chief State Attorney, Legal Manager to Director of Public Prosecutions
12.  Ms. Judith Asiimwe, Counsellor, International Legal and Social Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs
13.  Ms. Allen Uwamariya Bucyana, Assistant Commissioner, Legal Advisory, Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs
14.  Ms. Viola Tucungwirwe Mary, Principal Policy Analyst, Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions
15.  Ms. Adrine Asingwiire, Chief State Attorney, Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions
16.  Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIGP) James Ocaya, Uganda Police Force
17.  H.W Allan Mpirwe Gakyaro, Chief Magistrate, Judiciary
18.  Mr Hillary Bisanga, Assistant Commissioner General of Prisons, Director of Human Resources
19.  Ms. Rachel Ajwang Odoi-Musoke, Senior Technical Advisor, Justice, Law and Order Sector, Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs
20.  Ms Lucy Ladira, Advisor - Criminal Justice, Justice, Law and Order Sector, Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs
21.  Mr Edgar Kuhimbisa, Advisor – E-Governance, Justice, Law and Order Sector, Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs
22.  Ms Anne Mary Nyakato, Counsellor, Permanent Mission of Uganda to the United Nations Office in Vienna
23.  Dr. Sylvia Namubiru Mukasa, Chief Executive Officer, Legal Aid Service Providers Network (LASPNET)
24.  Mr. Sam Rogers Wairagala, Deputy Senior Technical Advisor, Justice, Law and Order Sector, Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs

#CCPCJ33

VIENNA, AUSTRIA – At the 33^rd Session on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice (CCPCJ) underway at the Vienna International Centre, Uganda held a side event under the theme: Role of the Sector-wide approach in criminal justice reform: The Uganda JLOS Experience. 

The core objective of the side event held today was to showcase the JLOS – chain-linked approach to criminal justice reform in Uganda – leveraging people-centred justice models; multi-stakeholder engagement at local, regional, and national levels; transformative leadership and digital innovation.

The well-attended side event was moderated by Mr. Sam Rogers Wairagala, Deputy Senior Technical Advisor (JLOS Secretariat, Ministry of Justice, and Constitutional Affairs) and featured Hon. Justice Jane Frances Abodo, Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP); Ms Rachel Odoi-Musoke, Senior Technical Advisor (JLOS Secretariat, Ministry of Justice, and Constitutional Affairs); and Ms Sylvia Namubiru Mukasa, Chief Executive Officer of the Uganda Legal Aid Service Providers Network (LASPNET).

Other notable speakers at the event included H.E Amb. Stephen Mubiru, Ambassador of the Republic of Uganda to Germany (Ministry of Foreign Affairs); H. E Amb. Maurice Makoloo, Permanent Representative of Kenya in Vienna; Ms. Sharon Lesa Nyambe, the UNODC Head of Office in Uganda; and a representative from the Government of Sudan.

The event was organised by the Republic of Uganda with the support of the Republic of Kenya, Republic of Sudan and the UNODC Regional Section for Africa and the Middle East.

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Uganda 33^rd CCPCJ Side Event Information Pack

Uganda 33^rd CCPCJ Side Event Documentary

Facts and Figures: Uganda at the 33^rd CCPCJ

JLOS at Glance (Brochure)

Uganda Side Event Poster

Recording: Uganda 33^rd CCPCJ Side Event (Passcode: w#2VLs0W)

This Strategic Plan for Governance and Security Programme – Access to Justice Sub Programme [Thematic Area] covers the period 2020/2021-2024/2025.

The Governance and Security Programme goal is to improve adherence to the rule of law and capacity to contain prevailing and emerging security threats.

The Programme brings together 29 Government Agencies responsible for upholding the Rule of Law, ensuring Security, maintaining Law and Order, Public Policy Governance, administration of justice, promoting Human Rights, accountability, and transparency.

This Programme contributes to the Third National Development Plan (NDP III) 2020/21-2024/25 objective five of strengthening the role of the State in development. The Access to Justice Sub Programme brings together 17 institutions responsible for administering justice, maintaining law and order, and promoting the observance of human rights. This Sub Programme draws State and Non-State Actors (NSAs) who play complementary roles in planning, budgeting, Programme implementation, monitoring, and evaluation.

DOWNLOAD THE A2J STRATEGIC PLAN (2020 - 2025)

President Yoweri Museveni has supported the use of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR), an innovation that the Judiciary wants to roll out to quickly dispose of cases within the community.

Museveni during Thursday’s commissioning of the Supreme Court and Court of Appeal buildings at City Square in Kampala, said that the initiative will reduce a lot of anger in the population.

The system involves the use of mediation, arbitration, and negotiations conducted by personalities that all parties respect and trust to solve such disputes.

“I want to thank the Judiciary again for what they have correctly called the original justice system. I am glad that you are providing a window where even murder can be forgiven, instead of pursuing the line of an eye for an eye; I praise you for this effort, once we institutionalise, a lot of anger in the population will be avoided,” Museveni said.

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President. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has commissioned two Appellate Court twin buildings to host the Supreme Court and the Court of Appeal which have been in rented premises since Independence. The buildings located in the middle of Kampala at Plot 2 were commissioned on Thursday.

President Museveni said he was very happy that the buildings were constructed using the government of Uganda’s money and not a loan from foreign countries. He said this proves what the National Resistance Movement told them from the beginning there is nothing they can’t do when they learn to prioritize and avoid touching so many things.

Museveni appreciated the fact that the Judiciary is a peace maker and when they adjudicate, they bring peace in place and production hence contributing greatly to the economic development.

Museveni promised to invite the Chief Justice for a discussion on their priorities too as the Judiciary and issues of limited budget constraints.

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Uganda Law Society (ULS) president Bernard Oundo has urged the public to embrace free legal services. Oundo says the public, especially the vulnerable groups, should use the available legal aid services at ULS.

According to Oundo, ULS operates a total of 22 legal offices across the country aimed at providing assistance to vulnerable individuals seeking access to justice. He emphasised that the services are most critical for vulnerable people, who often require them the most.

Oundo has also highlighted challenges regarding the timely delivery of justice, the growing case backlogs and widespread corruption that need urgent attention. He has pointed out that only 10% of the population can easily access justice.

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