The Judiciary’s decision to introduce Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Clubs in univerisities and secondary schools hailed as a step toward nurturing a culture of dialogue and peaceful conflict resolution from a young age. Speaking at the official launch of School ADR Clubs on Tuesday, March 31, held at ADR Centre in Nyarugenge District, Deputy Chief Justice Alphonse Hitiyaremye described the initiative as both timely and visionary, noting that it represents a deliberate investment in the future of Rwanda’s justice sector. ALSO READ: How alternative dispute resolution is decongesting correctional facilities “These clubs will serve as practical platforms where students develop essential life skills such as communication, negotiation, empathy, and critical thinking,” Hitiyaremye said. He emphasized that beyond learning legal principles, students will actively practice them in their daily lives. “Through ADR Clubs, students will not only learn the principles of justice but also practice them in their daily interactions. We are confident that these clubs will empower young people to become ambassadors of peace within their schools, families, and communities,” he said. ALSO READ: Judiciary to focus on ADR, speedy, accessible justice in new year ADR Centre indicates that clubs have already been established in five universities across 11 campuses and in over 200 high schools, with plans to expand nationwide. Supporting materials, including guiding booklets and training, will be provided to ensure their effectiveness. These clubs are not limited to law students. They are open to learners from all academic backgrounds, reflecting the idea that conflict resolution is a universal life skill. The initiative builds on Rwanda’s tradition of resolving disputes through dialogue and consensus. Rooted in cultural values that prioritize community harmony, ADR mechanisms have become an essential pillar of the country’s justice sector. This approach is further anchored in the Constitution of Rwanda, which promotes the amicable settlement of disputes as a fundamental principle. ALSO READ: Chief Justice says 80% of disputes could be handled through ADR Over the years, Rwanda has made notable progress in institutionalizing ADR, particularly following the adoption of the ADR Policy. “The legacy of Gacaca courts remains a powerful reference point. These community-based courts played a transformative role in delivering restorative justice after the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi by promoting truth-telling, accountability, reconciliation, and healing - principles that continue to shape modern ADR practices,” the Deputy Chief Justice said. Hitiyaremye added that the Judiciary continues to expand ADR mechanisms that are reshaping the justice landscape. Court-annexed mediation allows parties to resolve disputes amicably before or during court proceedings, helping to reduce case backlogs while preserving relationships. Similarly, plea bargaining has improved efficiency in the criminal justice system by expediting case resolution while maintaining fairness. Victim-offender mediation has also created space for dialogue and reconciliation where possible. These mechanisms go beyond legal procedures; they foster trust, mutual understanding, and social cohesion. Students are already recognizing the potential of ADR Clubs. Stecy Ntambutsa, a law student at Mount Kigali University, said the initiative will encourage students to adopt a culture of resolving conflicts outside courts. “The ADR club will teach us that not every dispute requires litigation. Many conflicts can be resolved amicably among people,” she said, adding that it will also provide hands-on experience in ADR before students complete their studies. Denys Ndihoreye, Chairperson of the ADR Club at the University of Rwanda, Huye Campus, described ADR as essential to the future of Rwanda’s justice system. “As students and future practitioners, we have embraced ADR as a practical pathway to accessible, efficient, and peaceful justice. Through these clubs, we are cultivating a generation that believes in resolving disputes not only through courts, but also through dialogue and mutual understanding,” he said. However, he pointed out existing challenges, including limited training, mentorship, and institutional support, which constrain the full potential of the clubs. He called for structured capacity-building programs, stronger collaboration between universities and justice institutions, and increased practical exposure for students. From the government’s perspective, ADR is a strategic priority. Théophile Mbonera, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Justice, noted that ADR aligns with national development frameworks, including the National Strategy for Transformation (NST2), and supports the country’s broader commitment to the rule of law and good governance. “ADR ensures that justice is not only done but is accessible, efficient, and responsive to the needs of our society,” he said. Since the adoption of ADR and Criminal Justice policies in 2022, Rwanda has recorded significant progress. Case backlogs have declined, from 62 percent in 2022-2023 to 49 percent in 2024-2025. The current rate stands at 45 percent. Additionally, 9,559 cases have been resolved through court-annexed mediation, while 31,143 criminal cases have been settled through plea bargaining. ADR has also contributed to reducing overcrowding in correctional facilities, which declined by 24.4 percent during the 2024-2025 fiscal year, according to the National Human Rights Commission. Mbonera reiterated that the establishment of ADR Clubs is therefore seen as a transformative initiative that bridges the gap between theory and practice. By equipping students with practical skills, the clubs prepare a new generation of professionals capable of addressing real-world challenges while promoting social harmony.
