NAKAWA– Justice Mike Chibita, Chairperson of the Governing Council of the Judicial Training Institute (JTI), yesterday officially closed a two-day capacity-building training on the adjudication of forest crimes.
The training, held at JTI’s premises in Nakawa, brought together 36 judicial officers, including Chief Magistrates and Magistrates Grade One, for an intensive engagement on strengthening the Judiciary’s role in advancing environmental justice.
In his closing remarks, Justice Chibita commended the enriching and timely nature of the training, describing it as a significant step toward reinforcing the Judiciary’s mandate in environmental protection.
“Over the past two days, we have reflected together, learned together, and strengthened our shared commitment to justice and environmental stewardship,” he said.
He underscored that forest crimes are not minor infractions but serious offences with far-reaching ecological, economic, and social consequences. He urged judicial officers to apply the insights gained with rigor and consistency.
“The Judiciary must remain firm, informed, and consistent in handling such matters,” he noted, further emphasizing that forests are living ecosystems that sustain communities and regulate the climate.
Justice Chibita also lauded the comprehensive presentations delivered during the training, which addressed evidentiary challenges, sentencing considerations, and inter-institutional collaboration. He expressed appreciation to JTI, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), the European Union, and the facilitators for their continued commitment to strengthening judicial capacity.
“Let this not be the end of a training, but the beginning of a renewed approach, grounded in the rule of law,” he concluded.
Leadership and Institutional Commitment
Justice Andrew Khaukha, Executive Director of JTI, paid tribute to Justice Chibita’s mentorship and the Governing Council’s guidance, committing to dynamic, values-driven leadership.
“My Lord, we want to commit that we shall not be leaders who merely hang jackets on chairs. We are committed to moving, engaging, and ensuring things are done,” he pledged.
He emphasized the magistracy’s role as the Judiciary’s gateway and reminded officers of the weight of their responsibility to serve with integrity and diligence.
“God sees what we do and always rewards us according to what we put in,” Justice Khaukha added.
He further commended HW Lillian Bucyana, the Acting Registrar JTI, for her leadership by influence and the JTI team for effectively steering the Institute’s mandate.
Ms. Jalia B. Kobusinge, Adviser at the European Union Delegation in Uganda, praised the training’s content and highlighted the importance of leadership skills in justice delivery.
“We need these leadership skills because they contribute greatly to customer care in justice delivery,” she noted, reaffirming the EU’s continued partnership with UNODC and support for Uganda’s justice sector reforms.
Ms. Sharon Nyambe, representing UNODC, appreciated the active participation of judicial officers and announced that a judicial manual on environmental crimes is under development, informed by ongoing dialogue with the Judiciary.
“This is an orientation we are doing together. We look forward to hearing the cases you’ll handle in your jurisdictions and the leadership you’ll exhibit,” she said.
