The Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Association of Law Reform Agencies of Eastern and Southern Africa (ALRAESA) was held in Lilongwe, Malawi, on 21 November 2025, following two days of discussion on Artificial Intelligence and its impact on law reform across the region. Zambia was represented through the Zambia Law Development Commission (ZLDC), led by Madam Justice Ruth Chibbabbuka, Chairperson at the Commission.
ALRAESA is a membership association of national law reform agencies, established to strengthen cooperation, support comparative research, and promote effective law reform practices. Zambia is one of the founding members of the Association and continues to participate in its collaborative efforts.
ZAMBIA ELECTED AS SECRETARY GENERAL
At this year’s AGM, member countries elected new office bearers to guide the Association for the 2025–2027 term. The chairmanship shifted to Kenya, with Lesotho elected as Vice-Chairperson. Mauritius was elected as Second Vice-Chairperson, and Tanzania and Uganda joined the Executive Committee. Zambia, through ZLDC, was elected to serve as Secretary General, taking on responsibility for coordinating communication and supporting administrative functions for the Association.
Speaking on Zambia’s election, Madam Justice Ruth Chibbabbuka expressed appreciation on behalf of the Commission, stating that “Zambia is honoured to support the work of ALRAESA and looks forward to helping strengthen cooperation among member institutions.”
She further emphasised that “regional collaboration remains essential as our countries navigate new and complex areas of law reform.”
ZAMBIA TO HOST THE REGION IN 2026
Alongside its election, Zambia made a proposal of regional significance: to host the 2026 ALRAESA Conference and AGM. If confirmed, the next gathering of regional law reform institutions will take place in Zambia, providing an opportunity for knowledge-sharing and direct engagement on emerging challenges.
Madam Justice Chibbabbuka noted that “Zambia would be privileged to welcome the region next year and provide a platform for continued dialogue and cooperation in law reform.”
NEXT STEPS FOR ZLDC
With its new role, ZLDC will begin coordinating communication among member institutions, facilitating meetings for the Association, and undertaking consultations on the possible hosting of the 2026 Conference and AGM.