Africa Chief Justices' ADR Forum

In March 2024, we invited Chief Justices from across Africa to assemble in Kampala, Uganda, to discuss how their justice systems might be supported by Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) methods. Chief Justices in attendance signed a Memorandum of Understanding to create a pan-African forum of Chief Justices committed to advancing ADR in their own countries—the Africa Chief Justices' ADR Forum—and designated Pepperdine University as the Forum's official partner, trainer, and capacity builder.

We partner with the Africa Chief Justices’ ADR Forum in humble recognition that many of the principles behind alternative dispute resolution are already deeply rooted in traditional African methods for resolving disputes. Therefore, we come alongside judicial leaders to support them in their collective goal of advancing these practices within their own contexts.

Through the Forum, Chief Justices from across the continent collaborate to strengthen the use of ADR within their national courts. Together, they share best practices, participate in trainings and convenings, and work to expand access to justice in ways that are locally led and sustainable.

This partnership reflects a shared commitment to action. As relationships deepen and collaboration grows, the Forum continues to build momentum across regions—strengthening justice systems and impacting lives throughout the continent. It is one of Pepperdine’s greatest honors to stand alongside the Africa Chief Justices’ ADR Forum in this work.