Parallel Enforcement Of Foreign Arbitral Awards In Uganda

International arbitration has become the preferred mechanism for resolving cross-border disputes, ensuring efficiency and predictability in global commerce. The recent case of Kampala International University v Housing Finance Company Limited (2025) highlights crucial insights into the enforcement of foreign arbitral awards in Uganda. This decision clarifies three key principles: the enforceability of foreign awards, the permissibility of parallel enforcement, and the narrow scope of public policy objections.

1. Recognition and enforceability of foreign arbitral awards

As a signatory to the New York Convention, Uganda has consistently upheld the recognition and enforcement of foreign arbitral awards. The court reaffirmed that an award remains enforceable even if it has already been recognised as a judgment in another jurisdiction. This aligns with international standards that prevent debtors from using jurisdictional loopholes to evade obligation.