Uganda

Since 2015, HiiL has worked in Uganda in partnership with the Judiciary of Uganda, the Governance and Security Programme Secretariat (formerly JLOS), NGOs such as LASPNET, , and international actors such as UNODC to co-create justice solutions rooted in data, community needs and sustainable policy change. In 2024, we concluded a major implementation phase supported by the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs and UNODC.

Understanding justice needs

We have carried out 4 Justice Needs and Satisfaction Surveys including one on crime and crime prevention, to map the evolving justice landscape in Uganda. The latest data shows that 95% of Ugandans faced at least one serious legal problem in the past year, with land disputes, crime, family issues, neighbour conflicts, and domestic violence topping the list. Land remains the most urgent and complex issue, affecting one in four people while a high number of women reported legal problems related to domestic violence. Despite these challenges, resolution rates are improving, with over half of all legal problems resolved in 2024—a significant increase from 40% in 2016.

Our work

HiiL’s strategy in Uganda is built on a data-to-action model that uses robust research to guide policy, innovation and service design. We support justice leaders to translate evidence into practical tools, strengthen innovation ecosystems through accelerator programmes and entrepreneurship schools, and provide hands-on training for justice actors across formal and informal systems. Our approach is inclusive and locally rooted, bringing together public institutions, civil society, innovators, and end-users to co-create scalable, people-centred justice services.

Request for proposals

We invite qualified consultants to apply for this short-term assignment in Uganda. The role focuses on conducting qualitative research with survivors of domestic violence and justice providers to generate insights that will inform people-centred justice services. You can find all the details in the Terms of Reference below.

Key highlights

Actionable Data & Research

Developed the Uganda Family Justice Catalogue under the Justice Innovation Uganda project with JLOS, funded by SIDA. Produced additional guidelines addressing gender-based violence. Also co-created an e-learning platform with LASPNET

Capacity Building & Implementation

Nationwide training for legal professionals, civil society, the Uganda Law Society, and Local Councilors to apply these guidelines.

Innovation & Entrepreneurship

Organised Justice Entrepreneurship Schools and Innovation Fast Track programmes to nurture early-stage justice innovations. Supported justice startups through the HiiL Accelerator with funding, mentorship, and technical assistance.