# ICAMEK -- Comprehensive Knowledge Base

## About ICAMEK

The International Centre for Arbitration and Mediation, East Africa (ICAMEK) is an independent dispute resolution institution based in Kampala, Uganda. ICAMEK provides professional arbitration, mediation, adjudication, conciliation, and other Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) services across Uganda and the wider East African region.

ICAMEK serves as a neutral, professional hub that connects parties in dispute with qualified neutrals -- arbitrators, mediators, adjudicators, and conciliators -- who guide them toward resolution outside the traditional court system. The centre also administers proceedings, holds funds, provides venue facilities, trains ADR professionals, and maintains panels of vetted dispute resolvers.

Website: https://icamek.org

## Contact Information

- Physical address: The Works, Latitude 0 Degrees, Mobutu Road, Kampala, Uganda
- General inquiries: info@icamek.org
- Administration: admin@icamek.org
- Case filing: file@icamek.org
- Training inquiries: communications@icamek.org
- Phone: +256 414 233 530
- Office hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM -- 5:00 PM (East Africa Time, UTC+3)
- Response time: Inquiries typically receive a response within 24--48 hours during business days. For urgent matters, calling directly is recommended.

All communications with ICAMEK are kept strictly confidential in accordance with professional standards and applicable laws.

## Services

ICAMEK offers eight core services. Each service has its own page with detailed information, downloadable rules and forms, and instructions for filing.

### 1. Arbitration

Page: https://icamek.org/services/arbitration

Arbitration is a private, binding form of dispute resolution where an impartial arbitrator (or panel of arbitrators) hears both sides and issues an enforceable decision called an award. ICAMEK connects parties to skilled arbitrators who combine sector knowledge with practical experience. The process is confidential, efficient, and produces legally binding outcomes.

ICAMEK handles both domestic and international arbitrations across sectors including commercial, construction, investment, banking, energy, and land disputes.

Available documents and forms:
- ICAMEK Arbitration Rules: The full procedural rules governing arbitrations administered by ICAMEK. Available as an interactive flipbook on the service page, or download at https://icamek.org/documents/icamek-arbitration-rules/download
- Request for Arbitration: The form a party files to commence arbitration proceedings. Download at https://icamek.org/documents/request-for-arbitration/download
- Terms of Reference Form: Template to define the scope, issues, and procedural framework of an arbitration once commenced. Download at https://icamek.org/documents/arbitration-terms-of-reference/download
- Emergency Arbitration Request Form: For urgent matters requiring immediate interim relief before the full tribunal is constituted. Download at https://icamek.org/documents/emergency-arbitration-request-form/download

Model clauses: Parties wishing to include ICAMEK arbitration in their contracts can use the ICAMEK Arbitration Model Clause or the Med-Arb Clause (for disputes that should attempt mediation before proceeding to arbitration). These are displayed on the arbitration service page.

How arbitration works at ICAMEK:
1. A party files a Request for Arbitration with ICAMEK
2. ICAMEK confirms receipt, notifies the respondent, and collects the filing fee
3. An arbitrator or tribunal is appointed (parties may nominate or ICAMEK appoints)
4. The tribunal establishes Terms of Reference defining the scope
5. Proceedings take place (written submissions, hearings, evidence)
6. The tribunal issues a final, binding, and enforceable award

Arbitration Cost Calculator: https://icamek.org/arbitration/cost-calculator

ICAMEK provides an online cost calculator that estimates administrative fees and arbitrator fees based on the amount in dispute. Costs are quoted in USD.

Indicative fee ranges:
- Disputes up to USD 50,000: Admin fee USD 850, Arbitrator fee USD 1,000
- Disputes USD 100,001--200,000: Admin fee approx. USD 1,000--1,500, Arbitrator fee USD 3,000
- Disputes USD 500,001--1,000,000: Admin fee approx. USD 2,000--4,000, Arbitrator fee USD 6,000--8,000
- Disputes above USD 3,000,000: Arbitrator fee by arrangement -- contact ICAMEK directly

These are estimates. Actual costs vary depending on case complexity, number of arbitrators, and other factors. For precise quotations, contact the ICAMEK office.

### 2. Mediation

Page: https://icamek.org/services/mediation

Mediation is a voluntary, non-binding process where a neutral mediator facilitates structured dialogue between parties to help them reach a mutually acceptable resolution. Unlike arbitration, the mediator does not impose a decision -- the parties themselves craft the outcome.

ICAMEK connects parties to professional mediators who guide constructive conversations, helping transform disagreements into workable solutions. Mediation is often faster, less adversarial, and more cost-effective than litigation or arbitration.

Available documents and forms:
- ICAMEK Mediation Rules: The procedural rules governing mediations administered by ICAMEK. Available as an interactive flipbook. View on page or download at https://icamek.org/documents/icamek-mediation-rules/download
- Request for Mediation: The form a party files to commence mediation proceedings. Download at https://icamek.org/documents/request-for-mediation/download

The ICAMEK Mediation Model Clause is available on the mediation service page for parties wishing to include mediation provisions in their contracts.

### 3. Adjudication

Page: https://icamek.org/services/adjudication

Adjudication provides fast-track dispute resolution, particularly suited for construction and commercial matters where swift decisions are critical. An adjudicator reviews the dispute and provides a clear, fair decision within tight timelines. Adjudication decisions are temporarily binding -- they stand unless and until overturned by arbitration or litigation.

Available documents and forms:
- ICAMEK Adjudication Rules 2026: The procedural rules for adjudications. Available as an interactive flipbook. View on page or download at https://icamek.org/documents/icamek-adjudication-rules/download
- Request for Adjudication: Contact file@icamek.org

### 4. Conciliation

Page: https://icamek.org/services/conciliation

Conciliation blends mediation with advisory support. A conciliator assists parties in identifying issues, exploring options, and creating practical solutions. The conciliator may suggest terms of settlement, making the process more directive than pure mediation while still being consensual. ICAMEK's conciliation services emphasise flexibility and confidentiality.

Available documents and forms:
- ICAMEK Conciliation Rules: The procedural rules for conciliations. Available as an interactive flipbook. View on page or download at https://icamek.org/documents/icamek-conciliation-rules/download
- Request for Conciliation: Download at https://icamek.org/documents/request-for-conciliation/download

Model Clauses for conciliation are available on the service page.

### 5. Tribunal Secretary

Page: https://icamek.org/services/tribunal-secretary

ICAMEK links parties and tribunals to qualified tribunal secretaries who provide professional administrative support for arbitration, mediation, adjudication, and other dispute resolution proceedings. Tribunal secretaries handle procedural coordination, documentation, scheduling, and logistical support so that the neutral and the parties can focus on the substance of the dispute.

### 6. ADR Training

Page: https://icamek.org/services/adr-training

ICAMEK delivers specialised, practice-oriented training programmes designed to build professional excellence in arbitration, mediation, negotiation, construction dispute management, and broader ADR skills. Programmes combine international best practices with practical, skills-based learning through simulations, case studies, drafting exercises, and interactive workshops led by experienced practitioners and industry experts.

For training inquiries and upcoming programmes, contact communications@icamek.org.

### 7. Fund Holding

Page: https://icamek.org/services/fund-holding

ICAMEK provides a secure and neutral fund-holding service for arbitrations, mediations, adjudications, and conciliations -- including proceedings not administered by ICAMEK.

How it works:
- ICAMEK opens a dedicated account for each matter
- Funds are held in Uganda Shillings (UGX) or US Dollars (USD) only
- Maximum holding: USD 1,000,000 per matter
- Disbursements are made on written direction of the appointed neutrals
- Financial summaries are provided on request
- A final statement is issued before account closure

What fund holding covers:
- Fees and expenses of arbitrators, mediators, adjudicators, or conciliators
- Tribunal secretary fees
- Costs of third-party services (translators, experts, court reporters)
- ICAMEK administrative fees

Terms and conditions are available on the fund holding service page.

### 8. Book a Room

Page: https://icamek.org/services/book-a-room

ICAMEK facilitates access to state-of-the-art venues at Latitude 0 Degrees for hearings, mediations, meetings, and training sessions. The facility offers a professional, discreet environment suited for confidential proceedings and high-level negotiations, with a serene setting away from CBD congestion, premium hospitality, secure surroundings, ample parking, and accommodation options for both local and international participants.

To book: Email admin@icamek.org with your preferred dates, number of participants, and type of proceeding.

## How to File a Dispute at ICAMEK

The general process for filing any type of dispute (arbitration, mediation, adjudication, or conciliation) at ICAMEK:

1. Choose the appropriate process. If you are unsure whether your dispute suits arbitration, mediation, adjudication, or conciliation, contact ICAMEK at info@icamek.org for guidance. If your contract already contains a dispute resolution clause specifying ICAMEK, follow the process named in that clause.

2. Download and complete the relevant Request Form. Each service has its own request form available as a PDF download from the service page.

3. Submit the form. File the completed request form by email to file@icamek.org or deliver it to the ICAMEK office.

4. ICAMEK will confirm receipt, notify the other party, and guide both sides through the next steps -- including appointment of the neutral, payment of fees, and scheduling.

For cost estimates on arbitration, use the online cost calculator at https://icamek.org/arbitration/cost-calculator.

## Payment Information

All payments to ICAMEK (filing fees, administrative fees, course registration fees) are made to:

- Bank: Stanbic Bank
- Account name: International Center For Arbitration & Mediation In Kampala
- Account number: 9030015640315

Payment methods accepted for course registrations: Bank Transfer or Mobile Money. Proof of payment (screenshot or receipt) must be uploaded during registration.

## Training Programmes

Training page: https://icamek.org/courses

ICAMEK offers four specialised training programmes. Each programme page includes a full syllabus, target audience, and registration form.

### 1. Tribunal Secretary Training Programme

Page: https://icamek.org/courses/tribunal-secretary-training-programme
Duration: 3 days | Level: Intermediate

Equips participants with practical, procedural, and ethical competencies to support arbitral tribunals in domestic and international arbitration. The programme develops skilled arbitration support professionals across case workflows, hearings, and procedural documentation.

Key competencies covered:
- Case management and procedural administration
- Drafting procedural orders and arbitration documents
- Hearing preparation and logistical coordination
- Post-hearing support and award preparation

### 2. Arbitration Training Programme

Page: https://icamek.org/courses/arbitration-training-programme
Duration: 5 days | Level: Intermediate

A structured introduction to commercial arbitration in Uganda within international standards. Blends legal doctrine with procedural practice from commencement to award enforcement.

Key competencies covered:
- Arbitration law and institutional frameworks
- Tribunal jurisdiction and procedural powers
- Drafting claims, defences, and procedural applications
- Evidentiary rules and expert evidence
- Hearings, awards, and enforcement

Who should attend: Legal practitioners and advocates, in-house counsel.

### 3. Mediation and Negotiation Skills Training Programme

Page: https://icamek.org/courses/mediation-and-negotiation-skills-training-programme
Duration: 5 days | Level: Beginner

An intensive programme building advanced negotiation and mediation skills through theory, behavioural insights, and practical role play. Focused on managing complex disputes and facilitating durable settlements.

Key competencies covered:
- Negotiation strategy (distributive and integrative bargaining)
- Mediation process management (convening to closure)
- Communication, reframing, and active listening
- Conflict dynamics and dispute analysis
- Settlement facilitation techniques

Who should attend: Legal professionals and corporate counsel, HR/compliance/governance officers, government officers.

### 4. Construction Claims and Dispute Avoidance Training Programme

Page: https://icamek.org/courses/construction-claims-and-dispute-avoidance-training-programme
Duration: 3 days | Level: Intermediate

A specialised programme on construction contract management, claims preparation, and dispute avoidance strategies with emphasis on FIDIC-based contracts.

Key competencies covered:
- Procurement and construction contract frameworks
- FIDIC contract administration
- Claims preparation and response strategies
- Delay analysis and extension of time (EOT) claims
- Programme management (baseline, updates, revisions)
- Employer and contractor claims management
- Dispute avoidance and resolution mechanisms

Who should attend: Construction lawyers, legal practitioners, quantity surveyors, project managers, contract administrators.

### Course Registration

Registration URL pattern: https://icamek.org/courses/{course-slug}/register

To register for any training programme:
1. Visit the course page and click "Register for this Course"
2. Fill in personal details: title, name, gender, phone, email, employer, address, country
3. Select payment method (Bank Transfer or Mobile Money) and upload proof of payment
4. Accept the data protection consent
5. Submit the form

Upon successful registration, a confirmation email is sent to the registrant and a notification to ICAMEK administration. The team will follow up with onboarding details for the programme.

## Events & Conferences

Events page: https://icamek.org/events

ICAMEK organises and hosts events including training workshops, conferences, seminars, and professional development sessions.

### Upcoming Events

The ICAMEK AIR Arbitral Institutions Retreat
Page: https://icamek.org/events/icamek-air-arbitral-institutions-retreat-2026
Dates: September 18--19, 2026
Category: Conference

This retreat brings together leading arbitral institutions, practitioners, and thought leaders from Africa and beyond. The two-day programme includes keynote addresses from distinguished practitioners, panel discussions on harmonising arbitration rules across African institutions, and workshops on institutional best practices and case management.

### Past Events

- Mediation Training 2025 (February 10--14, 2025) -- Intensive mediation skills programme
- URSB Training 2024 (September 23--25, 2024) -- Specialised training for Uganda Registration Services Bureau
- Ministry of Lands Training 2024 (June 17--19, 2024) -- ADR capacity building for Ministry of Lands officers
- Ministry of Lands Training 2023 (November 13--15, 2023) -- Foundational ADR training for land administration

## The ICAMEK Podcast

Podcast page: https://icamek.org/podcasts

"The ICAMEK Podcast" is a series of in-depth conversations with leading ADR practitioners, judges, lawyers, engineers, and industry experts. Tagline: "Conversations that matter. Perspectives that disrupt. Solutions that redefine."

### Episodes

Episode 1: Beyond the Courtroom
Page: https://icamek.org/podcasts/beyond-the-courtroom-episode-1
Guests: Hon. Justice Geoffrey Kiryabwire and Asmahaney Saad
Topics: The ADR identity crisis, the cost of skipping mediation, and pathways from conflict to collaboration.

Episode 2: Public Policy in Arbitration
Page: https://icamek.org/podcasts/public-policy-in-arbitration-episode-2
Guests: Michael Mafabi (S&L Advocates) and Patrick Turinawe (ENSafrica)
Host: Mariam N. Iga
Topics: The public policy doctrine in arbitration, its shifting boundaries, and courts' cautious approach to setting aside awards on public policy grounds.

Episode 3: Dispute Boards and Construction Curveballs
Page: https://icamek.org/podcasts/dispute-boards-and-construction-curveballs-episode-3
Guest: Eng. Cyrus Titus Aomu
Host: Sylla Aissata
Topics: Power shifts, hidden negotiations, and the make-or-break calls behind construction site conflicts and dispute boards.

Episode 4: Contractual vs Statutory Adjudication
Page: https://icamek.org/podcasts/contractual-vs-statutory-adjudication-episode-4
Guests: Eng. Bakiza Ian Paul and John Kallemera
Topics: The differences between contract-driven and law-mandated adjudication -- timelines, authority, and enforcement.

Episode 5: Multi-Tiered Clauses, Yea or Nay?
Page: https://icamek.org/podcasts/multi-tiered-clauses-yea-or-nay-episode-5
Guests: Allan Waniala (S&L Advocates) and George Vlavianos (DLA Piper Qatar)
Topics: ADR clauses in commercial contracts, multi-tiered dispute resolution frameworks, and their enforceability.

Episode 6: Final & Binding... Until It Isn't: Section 34 and the Myth of Finality
Page: https://icamek.org/podcasts/final-and-binding-section-34-myth-of-finality-episode-6
Guest: Hon. Justice Stephen Mubiru
Host: Linda Alinda Ikanza (Amber Solicitors & Advocates)
Topics: Section 34 of Uganda's Arbitration and Conciliation Act, judicial review boundaries, and the sanctity of arbitral awards.

## SHE RESOLVES

Page: https://icamek.org/sheresolves

SHE RESOLVES is an ICAMEK initiative dedicated to increasing the participation, visibility, and leadership of women in arbitration, mediation, adjudication, and other forms of Alternative Dispute Resolution across Uganda and the wider region.

The platform develops and supports a pipeline of qualified female dispute resolvers through training, mentorship, profiling, and professional development, while promoting their appointment across commercial, construction, infrastructure, and community disputes.

"The future of dispute resolution is inclusive. The future is balanced. The future is SHE RESOLVES."

### SheResolves Directory

The SheResolves page features a searchable directory of women ADR professionals. Visitors can filter members by name, area of expertise (e.g. Commercial Arbitration, Construction Arbitration, Mediation, Investment Arbitration), jurisdiction (e.g. East Africa, Pan-African, International), country of residence, and years of experience (0--5, 5--10, 10--15, 15+).

### Current Directory Members

Justice Monica Mugenyi -- Patron, ICAMEK SHE RESOLVES Initiative
Page: https://icamek.org/sheresolves/justice-monica-mugenyi
Justice of the Supreme Court of Uganda. Champions diversity, equity, and inclusion in dispute resolution.

Damali Katuhairwe -- MCIArb, Advocate, Mediator & Arbitrator
Page: https://icamek.org/sheresolves/damali-katuhairwe
Specialises in commercial and family dispute ADR. LLM in International Dispute Resolution from University of London.

Lydia Proscovia Ochieng-Obbo -- MCIArb, Senior Partner at Frederick Francis & Associates Advocates
Page: https://icamek.org/sheresolves/lydia-proscovia-ochieng-obbo
40+ years of experience in private practice, central banking, regulatory reform, and corporate advisory.

Zubedah Namugenyi -- MCIArb, CEO of Muslim Arbitration and Mediation Centre Uganda
Page: https://icamek.org/sheresolves/zubedah-namugenyi
Advocate of the High Court of Uganda, Certified Mediator and Arbitrator.

Clare Ruhweza -- ACIArb, Architect & Associate Arbitrator
Page: https://icamek.org/sheresolves/clare-ruhweza
23 years in building and construction project management.

Kiara Binta Nkuranga -- MCIArb, President of UNABSEC & Legal Manager at Dott Services Ltd
Page: https://icamek.org/sheresolves/kiara-binta-nkuranga
First Female President of UNABSEC. Specialises in construction disputes arbitration.

Amina Nasaazi -- MCIArb, Vice Chairperson, Young Members Committee, CIArb Uganda
Page: https://icamek.org/sheresolves/amina-nasaazi
ADR practitioner specializing in disputes within the built environment. 10+ years experience.

Sylla Aissata -- MCIArb, Arbitrator & Lawyer at BNM Advocates
Page: https://icamek.org/sheresolves/sylla-aissata
20+ years as a commercial and business lawyer across Sub-Saharan Africa. Also hosts The ICAMEK Podcast (Episode 3).

### Join SheResolves

Join form: https://icamek.org/sheresolves/join

Women ADR professionals can apply through a three-step online form covering personal information, professional details (expertise areas, jurisdictions), and qualifications with photo upload. Applications are reviewed by the ICAMEK team.

## ICAMEK University Arbitration Moot Competition

Moots page: https://icamek.org/moots

The ICAMEK University Arbitration Moot Competition is the premier inter-university arbitration moot competition in East Africa. University teams compete through written memorials and oral advocacy rounds, culminating in national finals and an award ceremony.

### Current Competition: 2026

Page: https://icamek.org/moots/icamek-university-arbitration-moot-2026
Dates: March 16 -- September 17, 2026
Status: Ongoing
Moot Problem Question: https://icamek.org/documents/moot-problem-question-2026/download

### Past Competitions

2025: https://icamek.org/moots/icamek-university-moot-2025
Competition history: https://icamek.org/moots/history

## Panel Applications

Qualified ADR professionals can apply to join ICAMEK's panels:
- Arbitrator panel: https://icamek.org/panel/arbitrator/apply
- Mediator panel: https://icamek.org/panel/mediator/apply

Applications are reviewed within 10--14 business days.

## Documents Library

All downloadable documents:
- ICAMEK Arbitration Rules: https://icamek.org/documents/icamek-arbitration-rules/download
- Terms of Reference Form: https://icamek.org/documents/arbitration-terms-of-reference/download
- Request for Arbitration: https://icamek.org/documents/request-for-arbitration/download
- Emergency Arbitration Request Form: https://icamek.org/documents/emergency-arbitration-request-form/download
- ICAMEK Mediation Rules: https://icamek.org/documents/icamek-mediation-rules/download
- Request for Mediation: https://icamek.org/documents/request-for-mediation/download
- ICAMEK Conciliation Rules: https://icamek.org/documents/icamek-conciliation-rules/download
- Request for Conciliation: https://icamek.org/documents/request-for-conciliation/download
- ICAMEK Adjudication Rules 2026: https://icamek.org/documents/icamek-adjudication-rules/download
- Moot Problem Question 2026: https://icamek.org/documents/moot-problem-question-2026/download

Rules documents are also viewable as interactive flipbooks on their respective service pages.

## Data Protection & Privacy

Privacy policy page: https://icamek.org/data-privacy

ICAMEK collects and processes personal data in connection with its dispute resolution services. The General Data Privacy Notice is available on the website.

## Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is ADR?
A: Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) refers to methods of resolving disputes outside of traditional court litigation. The main ADR methods offered by ICAMEK are arbitration, mediation, adjudication, and conciliation.

Q: What is the difference between arbitration and mediation?
A: In arbitration, a neutral arbitrator hears both sides and makes a binding decision (an award). In mediation, a neutral mediator facilitates dialogue to help the parties reach their own agreement -- the mediator does not impose a decision.

Q: What is adjudication?
A: Adjudication is a fast-track process where an adjudicator provides a swift decision, particularly common in construction disputes. The decision is temporarily binding unless overturned by subsequent arbitration or litigation.

Q: What is conciliation?
A: Conciliation is similar to mediation but more directive -- the conciliator may suggest terms of settlement. It blends facilitated dialogue with advisory input.

Q: How do I start a dispute resolution process at ICAMEK?
A: Download the relevant Request Form from the service page (arbitration, mediation, adjudication, or conciliation), complete it, and submit it to file@icamek.org. ICAMEK will confirm receipt, notify the other party, and guide you through the process.

Q: How much does arbitration cost?
A: Costs depend on the amount in dispute and the number of arbitrators. Use the online cost calculator at https://icamek.org/arbitration/cost-calculator for an estimate, or contact ICAMEK for a precise quotation.

Q: How quickly will I receive a response to my inquiry?
A: ICAMEK typically responds within 24--48 hours during business days. For urgent matters, call +256 414 233 530 directly.

Q: Does ICAMEK offer initial consultations?
A: Yes, initial consultations are available. Contact info@icamek.org to schedule.

Q: Is my information kept confidential?
A: All communications with ICAMEK are kept strictly confidential in accordance with professional standards and applicable laws.

Q: How do I join the SheResolves directory?
A: Visit https://icamek.org/sheresolves/join and complete the three-step application form.

Q: How do I apply to join the ICAMEK Arbitrator or Mediator panel?
A: Visit https://icamek.org/panel/arbitrator/apply for the arbitrator panel or https://icamek.org/panel/mediator/apply for the mediator panel. Applications are reviewed within 10--14 business days.

Q: How do I register for a training programme?
A: Visit https://icamek.org/courses, select the programme, and click the registration link.

Q: How do I book a venue for a hearing or meeting?
A: Email admin@icamek.org with your preferred dates, number of participants, and the type of proceeding.

## Site Navigation

- Home: https://icamek.org
- Arbitration: https://icamek.org/services/arbitration
- Mediation: https://icamek.org/services/mediation
- Adjudication: https://icamek.org/services/adjudication
- Conciliation: https://icamek.org/services/conciliation
- Tribunal Secretary: https://icamek.org/services/tribunal-secretary
- ADR Training: https://icamek.org/services/adr-training
- Fund Holding: https://icamek.org/services/fund-holding
- Book a Room: https://icamek.org/services/book-a-room
- Training Programmes: https://icamek.org/courses
- Events: https://icamek.org/events
- Moot Competitions: https://icamek.org/moots
- Podcasts: https://icamek.org/podcasts
- SheResolves: https://icamek.org/sheresolves
- Join SheResolves: https://icamek.org/sheresolves/join
- Arbitrator Panel Application: https://icamek.org/panel/arbitrator/apply
- Mediator Panel Application: https://icamek.org/panel/mediator/apply
- Cost Calculator: https://icamek.org/arbitration/cost-calculator
- Contact: https://icamek.org/contact
- About: https://icamek.org/about
- Data Privacy: https://icamek.org/data-privacy
- Team: https://icamek.org/team