On 28^th August 2024, Rwanda Justice Sector in partnership with UNDP and Legal Aid Forum inaugurated the newly renovated Alternative Dispute Resolution Center in Nyamirambo designed to offer accessible, efficient and community-focused mechanisms for resolving disputes.  The event was presided over by Hon. Justice Dr. Faustin Ntezilyayo, Chief Justice of the Republic of Rwanda and was attended by Government officials, development partners and key stakeholders.

The ADR center will serve all ADR mechanisms such as mediation, conciliation, negotiation, plea-bargaining, arbitration, providing them with the necessary tools and environment to manage and resolve conflicts outside of the formal court system. It will offer a range of ADR services for civil, commercial, labor, and administrative cases. This approach fosters quicker resolutions and promotes reconciliation, relationship-building, and social cohesion within communities.

By focusing on alternative dispute resolution methods, the center aims to alleviate the burden on the formal court system, reduce case backlogs, and provide a more cost-effective and timely resolution process for parties involved in disputes.

Speaking at the launch, Minister of Justice and Attorney General Emmanuel Ugirashebuja emphasized the significance of the new Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) center. By highlighting its potential to foster harmony and understanding within the community, he envisions the center as a transformative tool that can help build trust and cooperation among individuals and groups.

UNDP Rwanda Resident Representative, Fatmata Lovetta Sesay, added, “UNDP Rwanda is proud to have supported the renovation of the ADR Center as part of our commitment to enhancing access to justice for all Rwandans. We believe this center will serve as a regional model and significantly contribute to the efficiency and effectiveness of Rwanda’s justice system.”

The United Nations Resident Coordinator in Rwanda, Mr. Ozonnia Ojielo, stressed the importance of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) in resolving conflicts. He highlighted that ADR is not only efficient and amicable but also offers a quicker and more cost-effective approach compared to traditional legal processes. Additionally, Ojielo pointed out that ADR helps preserve relationships and strengthens the overall justice system, aligning with the broader goals of peace and development in the community.

In his inaugural speech, Hon. Chief Justice, Dr. Faustin Ntezilyayo, described the new center as a "Multi-Door Center" and referred to it as a beacon of hope for delivering quality justice in Rwanda. He reiterated the importance of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR), emphasizing its role in resolving conflicts efficiently and amicably.