‘Haba na haba hujaza kibaba’ (Little by little fills the measure) – Learned Silk Joe-Kyari Gadzama Counsels Young Lawyers at the 30th East Africa Law Society Annual Conference and General Meeting

During the 30th East Africa Law Society (EALS) Annual Conference and General Meeting in the vibrant city of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama, OFR, SAN, Life Bencher, C.Arb., Affiliate Member, EALS, delivered a compelling vision for the future of East African law firms at the Young Lawyers’ Forum during a session titled “Preparing Law Firms for the Future: Strategies for Young Lawyers to Lead and Innovate” on 27th November, 2025, at the Ethiopian Skylight Hotel.

Chief Gadzama, represented by Sarah Jeta Atumga, Esq., Senior Associate at J-K Gadzama LLP, presented insights on the topic “Preparing Law Firms for the Future: Strategies for Young Lawyers to Lead and Innovate”, emphasizing the strategic role of young lawyers in shaping future-ready firms.

According to the Learned Silk, young lawyers can transform firm culture by proactively leading through three attainable strategies: driving reciprocal mentorship, implementing low-disruption innovation, and modeling professional excellence through continuous upskilling. As the Swahili proverb suggests, ‘ Haba na haba hujaza kibaba ’ (Little by little fills the measure) – these intentional, small actions will ultimately foster a future-ready legal profession built on collaboration and respect.

The forum also featured the following distinguished panelists:

• Mohammed Nyaoga, SC – From the Boardroom to the Firmroom: Strategic Thinking and Governance for the Next Generation of Legal Leaders
• Dr. Pie Habimana – Building Future-Ready Law Firms: Compliance, Consultancy, and Regional Competitiveness in the Digital Age
• Elsie-Michelle Irakoze – Navigating the Talent Revolution: Retention, Diversity, and Work-Life Integration in East Africa’s Legal Market
• Delbert Ochola – Leading from Within: The Emerging Lawyer as Innovator and Change Agent
• Rachael Kugonza – Financing Growth: The Emerging Lawyer’s Role in Structuring, Advising, and De-risking Transactions in a Complex Market

Moderated by Anthony Asiimwe, Vice President of the Uganda Law Society, the session underscored actionable strategies for East African law firms to foster innovation, strengthen mentorship, and uphold professional excellence while empowering young lawyers to take leadership roles.

The forum was celebrated as a pivotal moment in shaping the next generation of legal leaders and promoting forward-thinking, future-ready law firms across the region.

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