The Southern and Eastern Africa Chief Justices’ Forum (SEACJF) Leadership Training was officially launched in Seychelles, bringing together some of the region’s most senior judicial leaders for a high-level exchange on Judicial Leadership and Innovation.
The forum has convened eleven Chief Justices from across Southern and Eastern Africa, alongside Seychelles’ own Justices of Appeal, Supreme Court Judges, and Magistrates. Hosted in collaboration with the Chandler Institute of Justice and supported by experts from Singapore, a jurisdiction widely recognised for its advanced use of technology in court systems, the training provides a valuable platform for shared learning and regional cooperation.
At its core, the forum seeks to strengthen judicial leadership while exploring innovative approaches to modernising court systems. Through the exchange of global and regional best practices, participants will examine how technology, digitisation, and institutional reform can enhance efficiency and improve access to justice.
For Seychelles, these discussions are particularly relevant. As a jurisdiction that has historically experienced high levels of litigation, the Judiciary is actively exploring the development of regulatory frameworks for arbitration and mediation. These alternative dispute resolution mechanisms are seen as key to easing the burden on the courts while encouraging more efficient and accessible pathways to justice.
The opening ceremony was led by Sangwani Nyimbiri, Coordinator of SEACJF, who served as Master of Ceremonies and welcomed the distinguished delegates.
In his opening remarks, Chief Justice Rony Govinden emphasised the importance of collaboration among Chief Justices, noting that they play a central role in court management and leadership. He highlighted that, as heads of their respective judiciaries, they are uniquely positioned to implement reforms, drive innovation, and shape the future of justice systems.
Addressing the forum, Ron Chari, Executive Director of the Chandler Institute of Governance, thanked participants for their commitment and engagement. He underscored the importance of open and honest dialogue, encouraging leaders to ensure that discussions “move from dialogue to action.” He also noted that this initiative is intended to continue on an annual basis, fostering sustained collaboration and impact.
Chief Justice of Malawi, Rizine Robert Mzikamanda, who brings over four decades of judicial experience, also addressed the gathering. He expressed his appreciation to the Seychelles Judiciary for hosting the forum and highlighted the importance of such platforms in strengthening regional partnerships and knowledge exchange.
As the training gets underway, the SEACJF Leadership Forum is expected to generate meaningful dialogue and practical outcomes, equipping judicial leaders with the tools and insights needed to advance innovation and digitisation within their jurisdictions.
Part of the sessions included the Management Committee Meeting of the Southern and Eastern Africa Chief Justices’ Forum (SEACJF), which took place earlier that morning. Honourable Chief Justice of Malawi, Rizine Mzikamanda, SC, presided over this meeting and our Honourable Chief Justice, Rony Govinden, attended the meeting together with the SEACJF committee members.
Seychelles is proud to host this series of important regional gatherings, reaffirming its commitment to collaboration and to building a modern, responsive, and forward-looking judiciary.