Two female law students fly high the UDSM flag in the Great Lakes Moot Court Competition
By Zamda George, CMU
The University of Dar es Salaam is celebrating an extraordinary achievement as two third-year law students, Miriam Kente and Aida Mwaruka, distinguished themselves at the prestigious Great Lakes Regional Training Program and Moot Court Competition in International Humanitarian Law and Human Rights.
In this contest, which was held from 10th to 16th November 2024 in Kigali, Rwanda, Ms. Kente and Ms. Mwaruka of the University of Dar es Salaam School of Law (UDSoL) showcased exceptional skill and dedication, winning the award for Best Written Submission (Memorial) and securing an impressive fourth place in oral submissions.
UDSoL Dean, Dr. Sosteness Francis Materu, said that the success was a result of hard work and exceptional performance of the students as they they competed against peers from 31 universities from across the region.
“The competition challenged students to apply their legal expertise in simulated court proceedings, debating complex issues in international humanitarian and human rights law. This rigorous exercise honed advocacy skills and deepened participants’ understanding of global legal frameworks”, said Dr. Materu.
He added: “This is a moment of immense pride for the School of Law and the University. Ms. Kente and Ms. Mwaruka have demonstrated not only academic excellence but also the confidence and skills to engage in high-level legal debates. Their success is a testament to the quality of education and mentorship we provide”.
He stressed that this annual competition served as a critical platform for advancing peace, justice, and stability in Africa's conflict-affected Great Lakes region.
Relentless efforts and preparation for real-world challenges
UDSoL Moot Court Committee Coordinator, Dr. Petro Protas, highlighted the team’s relentless efforts and preparation for real-world challenges, backed with support and encouragement from the School in particular and the University in general.
“Our students worked tirelessly, honing their arguments, and perfecting their submissions. The Best Written Submission award is proof of their commitment to excellence and the strength of our training programs. I believe this is just the beginning for them as they continue to excel in the legal field”, he said.
For Miriam Kente, the experience was both challenging and inspiring. "Competing on such a platform was both challenging and rewarding. We were pushed to think critically and adapt quickly. Winning the Best Written Submission award validates the effort we put into our research and preparation”.
Aida Mwaruka also noted that the competition taught them the value of teamwork and resilience. “Representing our university and competing against some of the brightest students in the region was an honor. We are grateful for the support of our mentors and peers who made this possible”.
The Great Lakes Regional Training Program not only fosters academic excellence but also aims to strengthen peaceful coexistence in the region. By bringing together law schools from countries such as Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, the program emphasizes collaboration and the application of legal knowledge to real-world challenges.