AfGAC recently supported two impactful arbitration training sessions in Nairobi, Kenya and Kigali, Rwanda bringing together diverse professionals, experienced trainers, and institutional partners to strengthen arbitration practice across East Africa.
Advancing Arbitration Practice Across Disciplines
In November 2024, AfGAC had the opportunity to support two arbitration training sessions that marked a major step forward in regional capacity building. The first session took place in Nairobi from 11 to 12 November, followed by a second in Kigali on 14 and 15 November.
Designed for professionals across sectors—judges, lawyers, engineers, and quantity surveyors—the training delivered practical instruction on key topics in international arbitration. Participants examined areas such as arbitral proceedings, provisional measures, annulment, enforcement, and the applicable law, combining theory with real-world insights.
A Collaborative and Practical Approach
The trainings were conducted in partnership with the Nairobi Centre for International Arbitration (NCIA) and the Kigali International Arbitration Centre (KIAC). Trainers from the Hamburg Arbitration Circle (HAC) joined local experts to deliver a program that emphasized active learning through case studies, role-play exercises, and interdisciplinary dialogue.
Participants responded positively to this format and expressed a strong interest in extending the training to a full three-day structure in the future. The combination of international expertise and local knowledge made for a rich and practical learning experience.
Strengthening Institutions, Strengthening the Region
Beyond individual learning outcomes, the trainings directly contributed to institutional strengthening at both NCIA and KIAC. By enhancing staff capacity and expanding networks, the sessions reinforced the credibility and operational excellence of these centers within the African arbitration ecosystem.
The momentum generated by these trainings has ripple effects – improving daily arbitration practice, advancing the regional discourse, and positioning both NCIA and KIAC as key players on the international arbitration stage. These sessions reflect AfGAC’s core mission: to foster collaboration, skills transfer, and institutional development in support of a stronger arbitration culture across the continent.