Phillip Odoki, Head of the Gulu High Court Circuit, has officially opened the Justice for Her preparatory training at Gulu High Court, marking a strategic intervention aimed at strengthening the handling and expedited disposal of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) cases within the circuit.
The one-day session brought together judicial officers, court clerks, interpreters, and key criminal justice stakeholders from the four magisterial areas under the circuit. The training is designed to enhance conceptual clarity, reinforce procedural compliance, and promote coordinated case management ahead of the forthcoming SGBV criminal session.
Call for Accountability and Precision
In his opening remarks, Justice Odoki welcomed participants—particularly those traveling from outside Gulu—and described the city, often referred to as the “Dubai of Uganda,” as vibrant and hospitable.
He recalled that the Justice for Her programme was launched in Gulu last year by the Principal Judge following collaborative engagements between the Judiciary of Uganda, the Austrian Development Cooperation, and UN Women. Although implementation initially experienced delays, he expressed optimism that the initiative has now regained momentum.
Emphasizing accountability and measurable outcomes, Justice Odoki underscored that there is “no room for failure,” noting that Northern Uganda’s prolonged history of conflict has had lasting social consequences, including heightened vulnerability to sexual and gender-based violence.
He observed that while many participants have previously handled SGBV matters, the training offers an opportunity to reaffirm shared understanding of applicable law, evidentiary standards, procedural safeguards, and best practices.
Harmonizing Definitions and Strengthening Evidence Handling
Justice Odoki referenced a recent joint cause-listing meeting in which stakeholders acknowledged inconsistencies in interpreting what constitutes SGBV. In some instances, offences such as homicide had been categorized under GBV without consensus.
He expressed confidence that the training would harmonize definitions and sharpen doctrinal precision, particularly regarding evidentiary requirements and procedural safeguards in sensitive cases. He cautioned that inaccurate interpretation or reluctance to articulate sensitive terminology in court could materially affect the integrity of proceedings and the attainment of justice.
Judicial Training Institute’s Support
The Executive Director of the Judicial Training Institute (JTI), Andrew Khaukha, addressed participants virtually. He explained that although JTI now operates under a structured annual training calendar to reduce ad hoc engagements, this session was specially sanctioned by the Chief Justice in fulfillment of prior commitments under the Justice for Her programme.
Justice Prof. Khaukha acknowledged the short notice and logistical adjustments necessitated by prevailing circumstances in Gulu. He commended Justice Odoki for his coordination efforts and recognized Susan Okalany for adjusting her schedule to facilitate the training.
He highlighted Lady Justice Okalany’s extensive experience in access-to-justice initiatives, including her prosecutorial background at the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions and her role in establishing the Gender-Based Violence Department.
Justice Prof. Khaukha also recognized Chief State Attorney Ms. Sharifa Nawanga for her hands-on expertise in prosecuting SGBV matters and facilitating specialized trainings within the criminal justice system.
Addressing a Significant Caseload
Citing recent Judiciary census data, Justice Prof. Khaukha observed that a substantial proportion of the criminal caseload bears a nexus to gender-based violence—whether through sexual offences or related crimes arising within domestic and community settings.
The training signals a renewed commitment by the Judiciary to strengthen coordinated responses, enhance professionalism, and ensure timely and effective adjudication of SGBV cases within the Gulu High Court Circuit.
