The Judiciary has resolved 64 commercial disputes involving Shs20.67 billions through mediation, in a move aimed at reducing court delays and helping businesses settle disagreements without lengthy trials.


 The cases were settled during a 60-day exercise organised by the High Court Commercial Division following its Settlement Fortnight held from 17 to 30, August 2026.


Commercial Division head Justice Anna Bitature Mugenyi noted that 452 cases had been assigned to 26 mediators, comprising judicial officers and accredited mediators.


However, only 229 cases were completed during the exercise. 60 cases were fully settled and four partially resolved, while the remaining 165 ended without an agreement.


 Principal Judge Jane Frances Abodo said mediation should be judged not only by the number of cases resolved but also by how it affects relationships, businesses and the economy.


 She said the process allows parties to reach mutually acceptable solutions, instead of enduring prolonged court battles.


Abodo urged lawyers and litigants to understand the benefits of mediation and called on stakeholders to promote alternative dispute resolution to strengthen public confidence in the Judiciary.


Lawyer Maxim Mutabingwa called for increased training of advocates, arguing that some lawyers continue to favour conventional court proceedings, as they do not fully appreciate mediation.#