By Kassim Ssematimba
As Lawyer Isaac Ssemakade-led Uganda Law Society (ULS) officially begins its annual Pro Bono Week today, the Society’s Treasurer, Isiko Arthur, took the lead over the weekend by conducting an early legal outreach in Nsumbi, Nansana Municipality, the community where he resides.
Isiko’s initiative on Sunday marked a powerful demonstration of the “Radical New Bar” approach, in which lawyers are encouraged to go beyond courtrooms and offices to meet people where they live, work, and struggle with legal challenges.
According to Isiko, ULS holds at least one Pro Bono Week every year, where legal services are extended to prisons, schools, health institutions, and local communities.
“Starting July 21 to 25, 2025, we’re going to be providing pro bono services through our various partners and funders. I’m starting with my area of residence, Nsumbi. We should always start with our communities,” said Isiko.
In Nsumbi, he moved from place to place sensitizing residents about the law and their rights, focusing on helping people understand the legal system, especially the difference between criminal and civil offenses. He also visited local wells and sanitation points, stressing the constitutional right to a clean and healthy environment under Article 39 of Uganda’s Constitution.
“As lawyers, we must go beyond just representing clients in courts. We must make sure everyone around us (the taxi driver, boda-boda rider, market vendor) understands their rights,” Isiko explained, adding that if your neighbor falls sick because of poor sanitation, it will eventually affect you too, urging fellow lawyers to protect both justice and their environment.
Isiko also reminded residents that being accused of a crime does not mean one is guilty, and walked them through legal procedures for both criminal and civil cases. He said Pro Bono Week is not limited to court representation but also involves explaining the law in simple terms to empower the public.
“We’re sensitizing people so they know that the ULS offices are open to the public all year round. We exist to help those who can’t afford lawyers, especially the millions living below the poverty line,” Isiko added.
Local leaders welcomed the initiative, with Mr. Nsubuga Moses, Secretary of Nsumbi LC1, saying that the community greatly benefited from the service.
“Not everyone here is well-versed with the law. This service helps our people understand how to live without breaking the law and what to do when legal issues arise. We welcome this program and appreciate lawyers who are willing to give back.”
One of the residents, Nakibinge Barack, expressed appreciation and surprise, saying: “I always thought lawyers worked in offices and only represented people with money.”he said, adding that yesterday’s event changed his thinking, seeing lawyers help the community understand the law and their rights, at no cost.
“And they’re even talking about clean environments. It shows they care about our whole wellbeing,” the excited community member added.
Under the Radical New Bar initiative, ULS lawyers are being encouraged to conduct community-based outreach, rather than waiting for the public to approach them in formal legal settings. Isiko said Nsumbi LC authorities have since invited ULS members to regularly attend community council sessions to continue providing legal guidance.
“This is a week for sensitization. ULS provides free legal services all year, because justice is a natural right, not a political privilege. Whether it’s an election season or not, our responsibility remains the same,” said Isiko.
As Pro Bono Week activities continue across Uganda, Isiko’s early action in Nsumbi highlights how legal professionals can make an impact, not just in courtrooms, but right in the heart of their communities.
