CLA News / Africa Legal Forum 2026 opens in Kigali with a call for a stronger, more resilient legal profession
Leaders from across Africa and the Commonwealth gathered in Kigali, Rwanda, on 28 October for the opening of the Africa Legal Forum 2026, addressing the independence of the Bar, access to justice, artificial intelligence and the future of the legal profession.
Jointly organised by the Commonwealth Lawyers Association (CLA), the International Academy of Family Lawyers (IAFL) and the Rwanda Bar Association, the three-day Forum brings together legal professionals to exchange expertise, strengthen partnerships and address challenges facing the profession.
Independent Bars and practical solidarity
In his welcome address, Moïse Nkundabarashi, President of the Rwanda Bar Association, emphasised that a Bar can only be truly independent if it has the financial resources to sustain that independence. The Rwanda Bar Association has taken steps to strengthen its financial sustainability and has discussed with the CLA how experience and good practice can be shared across the Commonwealth.
He also highlighted Rwanda’s ambitions for investment and economic development, the importance of protecting families, and the opportunity for delegates to discover Kigali and its cultural heritage.
Steven Thiru, President of the CLA, recognised Rwanda’s two bids to host a Commonwealth Law Conference, praised the considerable effort involved and encouraged the Rwanda Bar Association to bid again.
He highlighted the growing connections between cross-border transactions, private wealth management and evolving family needs. The Forum’s programme explores these developments alongside the CLA’s commitment to investing in early-career advocates, demonstrated by the interactive NextGen Forum held earlier that morning.
President Thiru also stressed that defending the rule of law requires more than public statements. The CLA must stand alongside institutional members when lawyers and legal institutions face pressure, offering engagement, consultation, advice and practical support.
Referring to developments affecting the legal profession in the Gambia, Sri Lanka, India, Kenya and Uganda, he highlighted the threats faced by lawyers carrying out their professional duties. He cited the CLA’s observation of Supreme Court proceedings in Sri Lanka, at the invitation of the Bar Association, as an example of international solidarity in action.
He reaffirmed the CLA’s commitment to championing the Council of Europe’s Convention on the Protection of the Profession of Lawyer.
Strengthening Africa’s place in the international legal community
Addressing delegates on behalf of the International Academy of Family Lawyers (IAFL), Immediate Past President Rachael Kelsey expressed her appreciation for the opportunity to partner with the CLA and the Rwanda Bar Association.
The partnership comes as the IAFL celebrates its 40th anniversary. With approximately 1,200 Fellows across 130 jurisdictions, the Academy recently welcomed an African chapter, marking an important step towards addressing the continent’s historical underrepresentation.
Rachael described the CLA as a natural partner, reflecting the organisations’ shared values and commitment to the legal profession. She also presented Rwanda’s Minister of Justice with a gift from the University of Edinburgh.
Rwanda’s Justice Minister on AI and the dignity of the family
Hon. Dr Emmanuel Ugirashebuja, Rwanda’s Minister of Justice, formally addressed delegates, highlighting the region’s aspirations for peace, sustainable progress and prosperity.
He identified integrity, impartiality and independence as essential virtues underpinning the legal profession and the work of Bar associations.
Artificial intelligence was a central theme. Recognising its growing influence across legal practice, financial markets, research and justice systems, the Minister highlighted both its potential and the risks of irresponsible use and unequal access.
He stressed the importance of ensuring that all countries can develop the necessary infrastructure and contribute to shaping the rules governing AI. As the technology becomes more consequential, accountability through human institutions becomes increasingly important.
He also welcomed the Forum’s focus on the dignity of the family and the need to protect this fundamental social institution.
The opening ceremony concluded with a vibrant performance by IYCT Troupe, a Rwandan traditional dance group founded in 2014. Through Intore dances, traditional songs and live drumming, the performers celebrated Rwanda’s rich cultural heritage.
Turning shared commitments into action
The Africa Legal Forum 2026 provides an important platform for strengthening partnerships across Africa and the Commonwealth. Its impact, however, must extend beyond the conference itself.
The CLA invites Bar associations and law societies across the Commonwealth to work with us to turn shared commitments into practical action.
