Uganda Christian University retains IHL Moot Court title as the country’s future lawyers tackle the realities of war

Organised by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) in partnership with the Uganda Red Cross Society (URCS), the 2026 Annual National International Humanitarian Law (IHL) Moot Court Competition brought together 12 of Uganda's best law students from four universities.

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 uphold human dignity during armed conflict.

In this year’s competition, the Uganda Christian University (UCU) emerged victorious, overcoming stiff competition from Makerere University, Kampala International University (KIU) and Gulu University. This year’s competition was hosted at Makerere University's School of Law, the country’s oldest university.

UCU students attribute this back-to-back success to a strong institutional culture of rigorous legal research, discipline, and consistent practice. Both championship teams dedicated months to intensive preparation, including numerous research sessions, memorial drafting, and rigorous oral advocacy practice rounds. Victory was the culmination of countless late nights, passionate team debates, and unwavering support from dedicated coaches, fellow students, and the university administration.

As one team member reflected, true growth happens at the edge of discomfort. The competition taught participants that preparation, discipline, and passion can transform pressure into an outstanding performance.

I had always known the Red Cross and had often seen its emblem. However, through this moot, I gained a deeper understanding of the ICRC, its establishment, and the important work it does to strengthen and promote IHL. It is reassuring to know that an independent body exists to protect people affected by armed conflict in times of war, Nali Shakirah, UCU Student shared.

To Janessa Kirabo Namakula, the experience is described as one of the most demanding yet transformative journeys of her academic and personal life:

From the intense months of researching intricate questions of IHL, drafting memorials under tight deadlines, to the high-pressure oral pleadings before distinguished judges, every moment pushed me beyond my limits.

With joy and excitement, Kakayi Patience Lindah, a student from UCU, added 

“the competition offered an immersive educational experience that goes far beyond traditional classroom learning. The role-play rounds brought the harsh realities of wartime to life. We confronted realistic scenarios involving armed conflict, humanitarian access, and civilian protection. The simulation of detention camp environments clearly illustrated the gravity of international law violations and grounded our studies in real-world human crises.”

We encourage every student and university to take part in the ICRC IHL Moot Court Competition to seize this valuable opportunity. It offers unparalleled exposure to the field of IHL. This is more than just a competition: it is a powerful platform for grooming the next generation of leaders who will advocate for the humane treatment of protected persons and the upholding of IHL principles. With dedication to deep research, thorough preparation, and a willingness to embrace the challenge, participants will develop essential skills in legal analysis, public speaking, teamwork, and critical thinking, thereby becoming more confident and competent advocates.