HELD AT THE UNIVERSITY OF LUSAKA, ZAMBIA
JUNE 2026
Executive Summary
The Firdaous Initiative for Academic Excellence (FIAE), in proud partnership with the University of Lusaka (UNILUS), Zambia, successfully hosted the 5th Edition of the FIAE IHL Moot Court Competition alongside the 7th Edition of the African Youth Peace Summit.
This prestigious double-event brought together over thirty universities from across the African continent, serving as a vibrant hub for intellectual discourse, legal advocacy, and cross-border collaboration among Africa’s future leaders.
The 5th FIAE IHL Moot Court Competition
The competition, designed exclusively for undergraduate law students across Africa, witnessed an exceptionally high standard of advocacy.
The Preliminary Rounds: Conducted virtually, featuring over 39 universities.
The Round of 16: A grueling knockout stage that narrowed the field down to the top eight teams.
The Quarter-Finalists (Physical Rounds): The final eight teams traveled to Lusaka, Zambia, to compete face-to-face:
1. University of Zimbabwe (Zimbabwe)
2. University of Lusaka (Zambia)
3. Obafemi Awolowo University (Nigeria)
4. Umma University (Kenya)
5. Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (Kenya)
6. Cavendish University (Uganda)
7. Riara University (Kenya)
8. Starford International University (South Sudan)
The Road to the Finals
Following intense intellectual matchups, the University of Lusaka, University of Zimbabwe, Umma University, and Cavendish University advanced to the semi-finals. Ultimately, the grand finale saw a thrilling intellectual battle between Cavendish University Uganda and the University of Lusaka Zambia.
The Grand Finale Bench
The final round was presided over by a distinguished five-member bench:
Hon. Lady Justice Ruth Chibbabbuka (Court of Appeal Judge) – President of the Court.
Hon. Lady Justice Mwenda Zimba (High Court Judge).
Hon. Lady Justice Mwaka Mikalile (High Court Judge).
Ms. Linah (Principal Public Prosecutor, Zimbabwe).
Mr. Swaleh Hemed Wengo (FIAE Assistant Director of Programs and the author of the Moot Problem).
The Champion: After a masterclass in legal argumentation, the University of Lusaka, Zambia emerged as the Grand Champion of the 5th Edition of the FIAE IHL Moot Competition 2026.
The 7th African Youth Peace Summit
Interspersed within the moot itinerary, the 7th Edition of the African Youth Peace Summit took place on June 25, 2026, at the University of Lusaka Auditorium. Executed in a hybrid (virtual and in-person) format, the summit explored the timely theme: “The Intersection Between Youth, Technology, Environment, and Peace in Africa.”
Dignitaries and Leadership in Attendance
Introductory Message: Prof. Pinalo, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Lusaka.
Welcome Remarks: Mr. Abdulkareem Azeez, Director of FIAE.
Chief Guest Speaker: Prof. Azubike Onuora, University of Ilorin, Nigeria.
Special Guests: Ms. Mwaka (Dean, School of Law, UNILUS), the Dean School of Law, Open University of Zambia, Deputy Vice-Chancellors of UNILUS, and representatives from the Ugandan and Zimbabwe Consulate in Zambia.
The summit concluded with far-reaching recommendations aimed at leveraging tech-driven and climate-conscious strategies for youth-led peacebuilding across the continent.
Exceptional Philanthropy and Cultural Exchange
The spirit of African camaraderie was on full display throughout the event, underscored by remarkable acts of hospitality and generosity:
The VC’s Financial Grant: In an extraordinary show of support for legal education, the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Lusaka awarded $1,000 USD each to fifteen select students who participated in the physical rounds.
A Gesture of Solidarity: Recognizing the sheer determination of the sole participant from Jomo Kenyatta University (Kenya); who traveled by road for three days to reach the venue, the Vice-Chancellor generously purchased a Business Class return flight ticket for his journey home.
Excursion & Closing: To culminate the week’s intense activities, participants embarked on a scenic cultural excursion the following day, unwinding and experiencing the rich heritage and beauty of Zambia. Gift presentations were also made by both the FIAE organizers and the host university.
Acknowledgments and Appreciations
Firdaous Initiative for Academic Excellence (FIAE) extends its profound and heartfelt gratitude to everyone whose dedication made this continental showcase a monumental success:
To Our Institutional Host: The University of Lusaka, for their peerless hospitality and world-class facilities. We specifically recognize the relentless efforts of the University of Lusaka staff—most notably Mrs. Theresa Lumbama, and the outstanding team of ushers who ensured seamless logistics on the ground.
To the Judiciary & Adjudicators: All the distinguished judges who brought immense legal expertise, fairness, and academic rigor to both the virtual and physical rounds.
To the Intellectual Pillars: The academic coaches who guided, mentored, and prepared the students across Africa for top-tier advocacy, and the brilliant presenters at the Peace Summit whose insightful papers enriched our understanding of youth and technology.
To the Student Support & Secretariat: The dedicated students who served selflessly as court clerks, meticulously managing the administrative flow of the rounds.
To the Organizing Team & Participants: The FIAE steering team for their flawless coordination, and every participating university and delegate whose passion and intellect defined this event.
To everyone who contributed in ways big and small, thank you for making the 2026 edition an unforgettable triumph.
Signed:
Ms. Adeke Joy Mary
Head Media and Communications
Firdaous Initiative for Academic Excellence (FIAE)