The Court of Appeal yesterday hosted its end-of-year Party and team-building activity at Kalanoga Resort, Busabala, bringing together Judicial Officers and support staff to mark the close of the year in celebration and reflection. Held under the theme Karibuni, the event provided a relaxed platform for interaction, appreciation, and strengthening collegial bonds within the Court.
Addressing participants, the Deputy Chief Justice, Justice Dr. Flavian Zeija, thanked members for turning up in large numbers, commended the Organising Committee, and hailed the team-building activities as both refreshing and meaningful. He urged staff to value such moments of fellowship, reminding them that professional life must also allow room for human connection.
“You see, in life there are moments you must cherish, and this is one of them. Life is not always about judgments,” he observed.
The Deputy Chief Justice emphasised the interdependence that underpins the work of the Court, noting that every officer, judicial and non-judicial, plays a vital role in ensuring effective service delivery.
“Regardless of your level, without some of us the Judges cannot function, and without the Judges, you also cannot function. We therefore have a symbiotic relationship, and that is why it is important to know one another,” he said.
He observed that officers often cross paths daily without meaningful interaction, as many retreat to their respective chambers and work in isolation. Such engagements, he noted, help bridge these gaps, encourage mutual support in both good and challenging times, and nurture a sense of shared purpose despite demanding work schedules.
Speaking on behalf of the Organising Committee, Lady Justice Stella Alibateese, welcomed members to the end-of-year celebration and invited them to fully embrace the day’s activities. She explained that the choice of venue was deliberate, offering a serene lakeside setting conducive to relaxation after a demanding year.
“This setting, we hope, will help you unwind and enjoy the day as we celebrate the hard work each of you has contributed toward achieving the Court’s objectives,” she said.
Lady Justice Alibateese commended members for observing the dress code and noted that the retreat was designed to deepen interaction, enhance teamwork, and strengthen collegiality. She reminded participants that a significant portion of life is spent at work and encouraged everyone to participate fully, relax, and enjoy the moment.
The programme featured energising team-building activities facilitated by Prowess Communications, alongside an entertaining performance by an acrobatics circus troupe. The Court also took time to recognise staff who had been promoted, transferred, or retired during the year.
Among those in attendance were Justice Fredrick Martin Stephen Egonda-Ntende, Justice Cheborion Barishaki, Justice Christopher Gashirabake, Lady Justice Margaret Tibulya, Justice Moses Kazibwe Kawumi, Justice Dr. Asa Mugenyi, Lady Justice Florence Nakachwa, Justice John Mike Musisi, Justice Byaruhanga Jesse Rugyema, Lady Justice Esta Nambayo, Lady Justice Cornelia Sabiiti Kakooza, and Justice Musa Ssekaana.
Also present were HW Rukundo Allen Owembabazi (Registrar, Court of Appeal), HW Dr. Alex Mushabe (Private Legal Secretary to the Deputy Chief Justice), Magistrates Grade I Research attached to the Justices, and support staff.
The event was moderated by HW Dr. Mushabe, assisted by HW Mwanja Brian (Magistrate Grade I Research attached to Justice Kazibwe) and Mr. Dennis Rwatooro (Senior Systems Administrator).
The celebration concluded on a high note with cake-cutting, the singing of Christmas carols, and cheerful dancing, as members shared moments of joy, gratitude, ahead of the new year.
Courtesy of Rose Ampurira & Danielle Nalukenge