The International Centre for Arbitration & Mediation in Kampala commences operations

October 18, 2019 By: ub_admin0 comments

The International Centre for Arbitration & Mediation in Kampala (ICAMEK), is a private sector led arbitration and mediation Centre which was incorporated last year on 26^th July, 2018.

The establishment of ICAMEK was triggered by the growing number of commercial disputes and huge case back log within the courts.  Consequently, the demand from various stakeholders was to have an effective dispute resolution mechanism that fosters the growth and development of business in Uganda.

On 23^rd March 2018, the Uganda Law Society and Uganda Bankers’ Association held a Banking & Law symposium during which it was resolved that a private sector led arbitration Centre be established to ensure a quicker resolution of disputes. The Private Sector Foundation, the Uganda Insurers Association and the Justice, Law & Order Sector (JLOS) are amongst the institutions that have supported this venture.

ICAMEK has also received tremendous support from the Judiciary led by the Chief Justice & Principal Judge, the Minister of Justice & Constitutional Affairs, Bank of Uganda, the Association of Architects, the Institution of Surveyors & Valuers, Uganda Manufacturers’ Association, KACITA (Kampala City Traders Association)and the Institute of Chartered Public Accountants, among others.

The ICAMEK intends to promote access to justice, train mediators and arbitrators and generally position Uganda strategically as a competitive and attractive investment hub.

Arbitrators and mediators operating under the Centre will be governed by a code of conduct to ensure professional ethics are observed and sessions will be guided by ICAMEK Arbitration & Mediation Rules. The Centre will also propose model dispute resolution clauses to be used in contracts/ agreements and provide access to a repository of online resources covering key arbitration topics.

The Centre shall had its official launch on 25^th April, 2019 at its offices in Nakasero. With this momentum, it is evident that ICAMEK will positively impact the commercial and investment environment in Uganda.