Lusaka, 26 August 2024 – The Judiciary of Zambia has commenced a four-day training programme at the Taj Pamodzi Hotel, aimed at enhancing capacity building for Research Advocates. This training conducted in partnership with the Judicial Institute for Africa (JIFA) is designed to equip legal researchers with the essential skills and knowledge required to excel in their roles.
In his keynote address at the launch, Deputy Chief Justice Michael Musonda, SC, emphasised the crucial role that researchers play in supporting Judges. He noted that equipping Research Advocates with the relevant knowledge and skills is essential to enhance the quality of justice delivery.
“Being a research advocate is a demanding role that requires one to fully understand and assimilate vast amounts of information. This information must then be condensed into concise, clear, accurate, coherent, and comprehensive formats for the Adjudicators,” he said. “It is my firm belief that you hold great promise in improving both the pace and quality of justice delivery in our country. You can contribute significantly to the good reputation and high esteem in which the judiciary is, or ought to be, held not only by the people of Zambia but the entire world.”
Speaking at the same event, Hon. Lady Justice Nicola Sharpe-Phiri, Chairperson of the Advisory Committee on Training and Continuing Education, reiterated the Judiciary’s commitment to building the capacity of its judicial officers and staff, who are the cornerstone of the strategic plan.
She stated, “Our intention is to continuously enhance our abilities to meet the demands placed on us by the constitution. A well-trained judiciary is key to delivering efficient and high-quality justice to the people of Zambia. As researchers, your role is essential to supporting the judiciary. Your work directly contributes to the quality and efficiency of justice delivery. By providing judges
with accurate and timely legal research, you ensure that the law is applied firmly and consistently.”
Justice Phiri encouraged the participants to engage actively in the training sessions and take full advantage of the learning and growth opportunities. “By doing so, you will not only improve your skills but also contribute to the ongoing development of the Judiciary of Zambia,” she added.
JIFA representative, Matidah Rachel Twomey, also addressed the participants, urging legal researchers to uphold high standards of integrity and impartiality. She highlighted the pivotal role of legal researchers as gatekeepers of legal knowledge, responsible for providing judges with the comprehensive information they need to make informed and well-reasoned decisions.
The Judiciary of Zambia remains extremely grateful to JIFA for their positive response to our request to hold this training, and we value the partnership between JIFA and the Judiciary in the capacity building of our judges and judicial officers. In March 2024, JIFA trained 40 research advocates in Chisamba, and the current training will see another batch of research advocates equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge.
This training will focus on enhancing research skills, understanding judicial needs, mastering legal drafting, and strengthening ethical understanding. It also aims to improve judgment structure, enhance writing quality, and boost confidence in their roles.
