Mount Kenya University (MKU) has taken a major step in enhancing legal education and arbitration training through a new tripartite agreement. The university’s Centre for International and Development Law (CIDLAW), based at the Parklands Law School in Nairobi, has partnered with the International Law Institute–South African Centre for Excellence (ILI-SACE) and the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (CIArb). The Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was officially signed at MKU’s Main Campus in Thika.
The agreement sets the foundation for collaborative efforts in alternative dispute resolution (ADR), with a strong emphasis on investment arbitration and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) compliance. The partnership aims to promote innovation in legal practice, mutual capacity building, and the advancement of justice through practical, globally aligned learning programs.
Under the MOU, MKU will contribute academic infrastructure and access to a wide student network. CIArb brings its global reach and expertise in arbitration training, while ILI-SACE will offer international standards in arbitration and ESG compliance.
Speaking during the signing ceremony, MKU Vice Chancellor Prof. Deogratius Jaganyi highlighted the growing importance of arbitration in Africa’s economic landscape. “Arbitration plays a vital role in fostering sustainable economic growth and ensuring fair, transparent dispute resolution mechanisms,” he stated, noting that many Kenyan businesses prefer arbitration for its cost-effectiveness and flexibility compared to traditional litigation.
Prof. Jaganyi commended the Kenyan government, particularly the Attorney General’s office and the judiciary, for integrating arbitration into the legal framework. He also praised CIArb Kenya for its continued commitment to training quality local arbitrators.
The VC emphasized that ILI-SACE has made significant contributions to global finance and legal governance training in Africa. He termed the MOU a “significant milestone” for MKU and announced that the university will host the first joint training program on investment protection and arbitration in August 2024. MKU students and alumni will be given priority in this program.
CIDLAW, the university’s think tank, will anchor this initiative, reinforcing MKU’s position as a leader in International and Development Law in the region.
