Africa legal experts to meet in Uganda for 63rd AALCO session

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Legal experts from across Africa are set to meet in Uganda next week for the 63rd session of the Asian-African Legal Consultative Organisation (AALCO), where discussions will focus on the development of laws influencing global trade, security, justice, human rights and diplomacy from an African perspective.

According to Attorney General Kiwanuka Kiryowa, the conference will attract more than 300 delegates from Africa and Asia.

It will take place from September 8-12, 2025, at Speke Resort Munyonyo, Kampala, and will be attended by justice ministers, attorneys general and other legal specialists from AALCO member states.

Kiwanuka said the meeting marks a significant milestone for Uganda as it will bring together delegations from over 47 member states, alongside representatives from international organisations and legal experts from both continents.

Uganda was confirmed as vice chair of the 63rd session during the 62nd session held in Bangkok, Thailand, in September 2024.

About AALCO

The Asian African Legal Consultative Organisation was established in 1956 following the Bandung Conference of 1955. It serves as an advisory body to member states on matters of international law and promotes Asia and Africa’s shared legal perspectives on the global stage.

The body provides a platform for member states to cooperate on international legal issues, including the law of the sea, climate change, cyber security, international trade, peace and security, and dispute resolution mechanisms.

“Uganda's selection as host reflects growing international recognition of our commitment to multilateral diplomacy, international law, and South-South cooperation. Hosting this prestigious event offers the country several key benefits which citizens should take advantage of,” Kiwanuka said in a statement delivered by Deputy Solicitor General Charles Ouma at the Uganda Media Centre.

Kiwanuka added that hosting the conference will enhance Uganda’s global legal profile, showcase its legal and policy expertise, and boost economic and tourism opportunities.

“Uganda will take a leadership role in shaping international legal dialogue and influence the development of laws that affect global trade, security, and diplomacy from an African perspective, the conference will provide opportunities for Ugandan legal professionals, scholars, policymakers, and institutions to engage with global legal trends, building local capacity and broadening perspectives in international law and with the high number of delegates, we expect increased hotel occupancy, tourism activity, and local business engagement which will bring a much-needed boost to the hospitality and service sectors,” Kiwanuka said.

He further noted that, as the current chair of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM), Uganda is strategically placed to champion issues relevant to developing countries.

“AALCO offers a complementary platform for furthering regional integration, peace, investment, and legal harmonisation,” he said.

Ouma declined to comment on other legal issues outside the scope of the conference, noting that only topics included in the official agenda would be discussed.

“The organising committee will share a brief on what will happen during the conference. There’s an agenda, topics for discussion. If at all any delegation or country feels they need a topic or subject discussed, they can present it, and the delegation will make a decision as to whether such a matter will be discussed,” he said.

He called on Ugandans, particularly those in the legal fraternity, academia, government and the private sector, to actively engage with and support the event.

“This is not only a legal conference but a national opportunity to strengthen our voice in the global arena and promote Uganda’s long-standing commitment to peace, international cooperation, and sustainable development,” he said.