The Uganda Christian University (UCU) emerged victorious at the 2026 National International Humanitarian Law (IHL) Moot Court Competition held at Makerere University’s School of Law, overcoming stiff competition from Makerere University, Kampala International University (KIU) and Gulu University.
Organised by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) in partnership with the Uganda Red Cross Society (URCS), the annual competition brought together some of Uganda’s best law students to demonstrate their understanding and application of International Humanitarian Law (IHL through simulated court proceedings
The competition challenged participants to analyse complex humanitarian scenarios, construct legal arguments and present their cases before a panel of distinguished judges and legal experts. Beyond testing legal knowledge, the event provided students with practical exposure to contemporary humanitarian challenges and the legal frameworks designed to protect civilians and human dignity during armed conflict.
Welcoming participants to the competition, Dr. Daniel R. Ruhweza, Head of the Department of Law and Jurisprudence at the School of Law, Makerere University, and Patron of the Moot Society, expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to host this year’s moot competition.
Dr. Ruhweza extended his appreciation to the ICRC and URCS for their continued investment in nurturing the next generation of legal professionals, emphasizing the importance of exposing students to IHL before they enter professional practice.
“We are grateful for the opportunity to host this year’s moot. Thank you for investing in young minds. It is important to understand these issues and practise them now so that when we join the field, we are ready and capable of serving our nations with our legal expertise.” he said.

Speaking during the event, Uganda Red Cross Society Secretary General Robert Kwesiga highlighted the growing relevance of IHL in today’s world.
“What is happening around the world reminds us that IHL cannot be put in the background. We continue to witness situations where civilians are targeted, where violations of the law occur, and where humanitarian workers, including our colleagues, lose their lives. This kind of engagement is essential in preparing legal minds to safeguard humanity and uphold the law,” He noted.
Kwesiga commended the participating universities, students and organisers for advancing humanitarian principles through legal education.
“As the Uganda Red Cross Society, we are mandated to disseminate and promote understanding of IHL. Competitions like this bridge the gap between legal theory and practice, especially in a world that is constantly changing. As we conclude this competition, we have created ambassadors who will continue promoting IHL among the younger generation.

ICRC Deputy Head of Regional Delegation, Barbara Rizzoli highlighted the significance of IHL in protecting human dignity.

“IHL is exceptional. It is not just another legal text. It embodies the belief that even in war, there must be rules. The application of IHL makes a real difference in people’s lives. IHL belongs to everyone, and understanding it is important for every human being. Practising IHL through moot court competitions helps participants appreciate its relevance and share that understanding with others.”

Former Director of Public Prosecutions and Justice of the Supreme Court, Justice Mike Chibita, who served as the lead judge during the competition, lauded the moot for equipping aspiring legal professionals with the practical skills and confidence needed to advance the principles of IHL.
He described moot court competitions as an invaluable platform for sharpening legal advocacy, public speaking, and courtroom presentation skills while fostering a deeper appreciation of IHL.
“Moots play an important role in the advocacy of IHL. I commend the ICRC, the URCS, and all the participating universities for their commitment to this initiative. This practice prepares students and builds their confidence in presenting legal arguments. It is one of the ways through which legal professionals learn to communicate effectively and ensure their voices are heard,” Justice Chibita said.
A notable feature of this year’s competition was the strong participation of young women. Of the six finalists who reached the final stage, five were female, reflecting the growing role of women in legal education and leadership.
As participants celebrated their achievements, the competition reinforced the importance of preparing future legal practitioners to uphold humanitarian principles and advocate for the protection of civilians in times of conflict.
Through its partnership with the ICRC, the Uganda Red Cross Society remains committed to promoting International Humanitarian Law and inspiring the next generation of humanitarian and legal leaders across Uganda.