Masaka Journalists Launch Third Edition of Greater Masaka Legal Awards

Journalists operating within the Greater Masaka sub-region have officially launched the third edition of the Greater Masaka Legal Awards 2026. Designed to celebrate excellence and strengthen ties between the media, the judiciary, and legal practitioners, the awards will culminate in a grand dinner on December 15.

First established in 2024 by the Greater Masaka Court Reporters Guild (GMCRG), the initiative highlights legal professionals who demonstrate remarkable dedication to upholding the rule of law and improving access to justice.

Speaking at the launch event in Masaka City, GMCRG Coordinator Malik Fahad Jjingo explained that the month-long recognition process identifies individuals and law firms setting new benchmarks in the legal framework.

“These awards strive to reveal those teams and individual advocates that set new market precedents that define legal frameworks, the rule of law, innovativeness and support to others in pursuit of justice in the Masaka sub-region,” Jjingo noted.

Past editions have featured competitive categories such as Outstanding Lawyer of the Year, Female Lawyer of the Year, Law Firm of the Year, and the Human Rights Defenders Award. Building on this success, organizers have introduced two fresh categories for the 2026 event: the Best-Performing Judicial Officer and the Lifetime Achievement Award.

Esther Namugwe, the head of research at GMCRG, emphasized that the initiative serves to motivate legal workers who tirelessly assist ordinary citizens in navigating court systems. She underscored that recognizing these efforts fosters greater commitment to professional integrity and proper client counseling.

“When people feel valued and appreciated, they get motivated to do more. Advocates, law firms and judicial officers are key elements in the fight against crime in societies,” Namugwe stated.

Read the full story originally reported by the Daily Monitor at Masaka journalists move to recognise outstanding advocates, judicial officers.