The President of the East African Court of Justice (EACJ), Justice Nestor Kayobera, has praised Rwanda for successfully hosting the court’s month-long sessions in Kigali, calling the country’s support “exceptional and unique.”
Speaking at the conclusion of the sessions, Kayobera commended Rwanda’s efficiency, stating that every objective was met. “We achieved everything we planned—100%,” he said, emphasizing the seamless execution of the court’s activities.
A key highlight of the sessions was the general assembly, which gathered over 300 attendees—the first of its kind in Rwanda. Kayobera noted the remarkable turnout, stating, “We invited everyone, and they all came—something we don’t always see elsewhere.”
Additionally, all scheduled court cases proceeded without delays, a contrast to challenges sometimes faced at the court’s headquarters in Arusha, Tanzania. Legal representatives and stakeholders from across the East African region actively participated, underscoring the significance of the sessions.
Kayobera expressed gratitude to the Rwandan government for its logistical and financial support, which he said ensured the court’s smooth operations. “The Rwandan government helped us achieve everything we needed during the month,” he added.
While financial constraints sometimes hinder court activities in other East African countries, Rwanda’s backing eliminated such obstacles, allowing the EACJ to function without disruptions.
One of the notable cases heard in Kigali involved businessman Mironko François Xavier, who sued the Rwandan government over unpaid compensation for weapons he allegedly procured in the 1993–1994 period. The court ruled against him.
Following a month of productive deliberations, the EACJ concluded its sessions in Kigali and returned to its headquarters in Arusha, Tanzania, on March 13.
