The Faculty of Law at the University of Lay Adventists of Kigali (UNILAK), in partnership with the Office for the Establishment of the War and Economic Crimes Court for Liberia (OWECC-L), hosted a thought-provoking conference on “Transitional Justice in Africa: Liberia as a Case Study.”
The conference brought together students, legal scholars, and practitioners to explore the critical role of transitional justice in promoting accountability, reconciliation, and sustainable peace in post-conflict societies across Africa.
The discussion was facilitated by Robert Turyahebwa, Dean of the Faculty of Law at UNILAK, and Dr. Cllr. Jallah A. Barbu (Prof.), Executive Director of OWECC-L and Dean Emeritus of the Louis Arthur Grimes School of Law at the University of Liberia. Drawing on their extensive expertise, the speakers shared valuable perspectives on Liberia’s transitional justice journey, highlighting both its achievements and the challenges of addressing past atrocities while fostering national healing.
Throughout the conference, participants examined the importance of strengthening legal institutions, ensuring accountability for war and economic crimes, and promoting restorative justice as essential pillars for lasting peace and development. The discussions also underscored the significance of regional cooperation and the exchange of best practices among African countries navigating post-conflict reconstruction.
Students actively engaged with the speakers through a question-and-answer session, reflecting a growing interest in transitional justice, human rights, and international criminal law. The interactive dialogue encouraged critical thinking on the role future legal professionals can play in advancing justice and the rule of law across the continent.
The conference reaffirmed UNILAK Faculty of Law’s commitment to fostering academic excellence and creating platforms for meaningful discussions on contemporary legal issues. It also strengthened collaboration between UNILAK and OWECC-L in advancing legal education, research, and policy dialogue on justice and accountability in Africa.