Museveni Declares Economic Growth as the Solution to Africa’s Justice Crisis

President Yoweri Museveni has called on African leaders, particularly those in the judiciary, to adopt a holistic approach to governance, linking economic prosperity with justice. He made these remarks on Tuesday while addressing the Southern and Eastern Chief Justices’ Forum (SEACJF) Conference, held at Speke Resort Munyonyo, Kampala.

The conference, which focused on the theme “Enhanced Access to Justice: Underscoring Reforms in African Judiciaries,” brought together legal experts from across Africa to discuss judicial reforms.

Museveni emphasized the importance of economic growth in fostering justice. “If the economy of the country is growing and creating prosperity, it is easier to work on issues of justice,” he said. He added that a prosperous state is better positioned to support its judiciary.

Highlighting the role of education in societal development, the President stressed the need for universal education. He argued that many of the tensions in society stem from a lack of knowledge and the influence of superstition. “Everybody must go to school and stay there for at least 14 years,” he said, suggesting that education will equip people with the knowledge to better understand their world and resolve conflicts.

Reflecting on his over 60 years of involvement in political and social matters, Museveni underscored the importance of correct diagnosis in governance. Using the metaphor of medicine, he warned that misdiagnosing Africa’s problems would lead to failure, as seen in the past with Uganda’s former leaders who prioritized tribal and religious politics over national interests.

“But when we came, we said no! What you are doing is pseudo medicine,” he remarked, noting that the focus should be on creating prosperity through the continuous production and sale of goods and services.

Museveni concluded by reiterating the importance of patriotism and Pan-Africanism, noting that these values contribute to individual and national prosperity.

The SEACJF conference continues to serve as a platform for African leaders to explore ways to reform judicial systems and enhance access to justice on the continent.