KIGALI, Rwanda – 15 September 2026, the Institute of Legal Practice and Development (ILPD) has reaffirmed its commitment to building Rwanda’s arbitration capacity, positioning practical training as a key component of preparing the country’s next generation of legal professionals.

The commitment was highlighted during the inaugural Kigali Arbitration Week (KAW) 2026, held from 15–16 September. Organized by the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (CIArb) Rwanda Branch in partnership with the University of Rwanda, the event brought together judges, arbitrators, legal practitioners, policymakers, and students to strengthen Rwanda’s position as an emerging dispute resolution hub in Africa.

Speaking on the Role of ILPD in Building Arbitration Capacity, Rector Dr. Aimé Muyoboke Karimunda reflected on the evolution of legal education. He noted that arbitration was historically treated as a minor subset of civil procedure rather than a dedicated subject.

“We wish that arbitration may cease to be regarded as an arcane or esoteric specialism the province of a few and instead be understood as an indispensable component of commercial justice,” Dr. Karimunda stated.

To close this knowledge gap, ILPD revamped its Diploma in Legal Practice (DLP) programme to include a dedicated module on arbitration. The revised curriculum launched for full-time students in Nyanza and is expanding to weekend students in Musanze, aiming to furnish all graduates with substantive skills before entering the workforce.

ILPD established a strong presence at KAW 2026 with 70 participating students and lecturers. The event exposed trainees to modern developments in commercial and investment arbitration, mediation, AI, Online Dispute Resolution, ESG, and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

Collaborative partnerships remain central to this initiative. ILPD works closely with the Kigali International Arbitration Centre (KIAC), the Judiciary, the Rwanda Bar Association, and CIArb Rwanda to align education with real-world practice.

Beyond training, ILPD views arbitration as essential for improving commercial justice efficiency. Timely dispute resolution, confidentiality, and reduced court congestion strengthen Rwanda’s business environment and bolster its appeal for international trade.

As technological advancements and cross-border trade reshape the legal landscape, ILPD is modernising legal education to keep Rwanda’s legal sector competitive. Ultimately, building arbitration capacity today serves as a long-term investment to transform Rwanda into a credible, leading arbitration hub for Africa’s commercial justice system of tomorrow.