The Justice Kenneth Kakuru Memorial Lecture held at Bishop Stuart University on 6th March 2026 brought together members of the judiciary, legal practitioners, scholars, students, and civil society to celebrate the life and legacy of one of Uganda’s most respected jurists and environmental justice champions.
The memorial lecture served as both a tribute and a moment of reflection on the remarkable contribution that Justice Kenneth Kakuru made to Uganda’s legal system, environmental protection, and public interest litigation.
Remembering a Champion of Justice
The Keynote speaker Dr. Daniel Ruhweza reflected on Justice Kenneth Kakuru’s unwavering commitment to justice, integrity, and the protection of the environment. Justice Kakuru’s career was defined by courage, principled decision-making, and a deep belief in the rule of law. Through his judgments and advocacy, Justice Kakuru’s demonstrated that the law can be a powerful tool for protecting communities, safeguarding natural resources, and ensuring accountability.
The lecture emphasized that Justice Kakuru’s work extended far beyond the courtroom. He inspired lawyers, students, and activists to use legal tools to defend the environment and advance justice for all.
A Gathering of the Legal and Academic Community
The memorial lecture was attended by distinguished guests including members of the judiciary, representatives from civil society, university leadership, and students of law. The keynote speaker acknowledged the important role played by organizations such as Greenwatch, the Kenneth Kakuru Earth Reboot Initiative, and Bishop Stuart University in organizing the event and ensuring that Justice Kakuru’s legacy continues to inspire future generations.
Inspiring the Next Generation
One of the most powerful themes throughout the lecture was the importance of mentorship and leadership in shaping future legal minds. The keynote speaker highlighted how Justice Kakuru mentored young lawyers and encouraged them to pursue public interest litigation and environmental advocacy.
Students present at the lecture were reminded that the pursuit of justice requires courage, persistence, and integrity—qualities that Justice Kakuru exemplified throughout his life.
Continuing the Work
The memorial lecture was not only about remembering the past but also about looking forward. The keynote speaker, Dr. Daniel Ruhweza called upon legal practitioners, scholars, and students to carry forward Justice Kakuru’s vision of a society governed by justice, accountability, and respect for the environment.
Justice Kakuru’s legacy continues through the institutions he strengthened, the legal precedents he helped shape, and the many individuals he inspired.
A Legacy That Endures
As he concluded the lecture Dr. Daniel Ruhweza reflected on the enduring relevance of Justice Kenneth Kakuru’s work. In a time when environmental protection and accountability remain pressing issues, Justice Kakuru's life stands as a powerful reminder that committed individuals can use the law to bring meaningful change.
The Hon. Justice Kenneth Kakuru Memorial Lecture therefore serves not only as a tribute, but also as a call to action—to continue pursuing justice, protecting the environment, and upholding the rule of law.
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Greenwatch
We believe that environmental rights can be better exercised when people have access to information, can participate in decisions that affect their surroundings and have access to justice incase their rights are violated. Greenwatch exists to ensure that every individual in Uganda knows that they have environmental rights and these rights can be fully exercised through access to information, justice and public participation.
