Author: Gaudence Mushi.
Kampala International University in Tanzania (KIUT) held its annual Moot Court on 13th May, 2025, delivering a compelling and emotionally resonant simulation under the title “When Consent Is Stolen. Organized by the Department of Legal Studies and hosted in the university business block, the event began at 11:30am with an opening prayer, followed by remarks from Law Society President Hamza Shaibu.
The session attracted a wide audience and was graced by several distinguished guests, including the presiding judge of the day, Dr. Mutabaazi J. Lugaziya (Senior Lecturer), Dean of the Faculty of Education and Legal Studies, Dr. Zahara Kiggundu, Head of the Law Department Mr. Lwisijo Ndelwa, Academic Registrar Dr. Edward Kamya, Director of Marketing and Public Relations, Mr. Neil Mboma, former KIUT-Students’ Organization President, Daniel Mussa, and other faculty members.
Dr. Zahara Kiggundu gave the opening remarks, addressing the audience with a moving speech emphasizing the gravity of sexual assault cases in Tanzania. “Today’s moot court at KIUT is more than just a legal competition—it’s a journey into justice, empathy, and advocacy,” she said. “It challenges us not only to think critically but to feel deeply. Every argument made is a step toward becoming lawyers who lead with both skill and compassion.” She further urged the students to remember the purpose behind their legal pursuits: “Let this day remind us why we chose law—to stand up for truth, dignity, and those who need a voice.” Dr. Kiggundu concluded by commending KIUT Law Society for fostering a space for critical legal discourse.
The moot court argued a fictional yet relevant case of a couple, Rob and Sally, and examined the complexities surrounding consent within intimate relationships. The scenario challenged participants to grapple with legal, emotional, and ethical dimensions, underscoring that consent must always be explicit, respected, and never assumed, even in close relationships.
MOOT court proceedings give law students an opportunity to demonstrate their advocacy, reasoning, and public speaking skills in a simulated legal environment. Sessions held play a pivotal role in legal education where future lawyers hone their litigation skills, have discourse on real-world issues, and develop ethical and professional conduct necessary for courtroom practice.
The 2025 KIUT Moot Court served not only as a platform for academic excellence but as a powerful reminder of the legal profession’s moral responsibility to protect and give voice to the vulnerable.
