By Kyan Orapa
On March 9-13, the Criminal Justice Club (CJC) went on an insightful expedition to Arusha, Tanzania. Widely recognized as the region’s Diplomatic Capital, Arusha served as the best backdrop for a journey that truly embodied USIU-Africa’s motto: Education to Take You Places. Over the course of five days, club members engaged with several high-profile diplomatic institutions, including the East African Court of Justice (EACJ), the African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights (AfCHPR), and the United Nations International Residual Mechanism for Criminal Tribunals (UN-IRMCT).
One of the first major highlights was the exploration of the inner workings of the East African Court of Justice (EACJ). Established on November 30, 2001, following the signing of the treaty for the establishment of the East African Community, the EACJ serves a vital dual purpose. Beyond enforcing the treaty among member states, it works to uphold fundamental human rights, resolve conflicts between private entities and partner states, and ensure access to justice for all citizens within the East African Community.
The momentum continued the following day at the AfCHPR, where they toured the institution and delved into its rich history. The court’s primary mission was a point of deep emphasis: the protection of human rights as enshrined in the 1981 African Charter. Its preamble serves as a guiding light, stating that freedom, equality, justice, and dignity are essential objectives for the achievement of the legitimate aspirations of the African people.
On the penultimate day, the club visited the UN-IRMCT. Established by the UN Security Council, this organ was designed to carry out the remaining functions of the International Criminal Tribunals for Rwanda (ICTR) and the former Yugoslavia (ICTY). The students learned about the mechanism’s critical role in tracking and arresting fugitives indicted by the ICTR – most notably Félicien Kabuga, the Financier of Genocide, who was apprehended in May 2020.
To balance the intensive academic schedule, the team enjoyed a team-building excursion to Kikuletwa Springs. The serene atmosphere and tranquil waters offered a perfect moment of reflection, tempting the group to linger for hours in the natural beauty of the region.
The expedition concluded on March 13. The team departed Tanzania with expanded perspectives and a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to engage in such impactful experiential learning. With new knowledge in hand, the club is already eagerly anticipating next year’s journey.
