The Speke Resort Convention Centre in Munyonyo, one of Uganda’s most prestigious venues, has once again proven its capacity to host high-profile events. On Saturday, September 28, the centre served as the stage for the Uganda Law Society (ULS) Annual General Meeting (AGM), which was packed with notable legal professionals and action-filled proceedings.

The Uganda Law Society AGM brought together some of the brightest legal minds in the country to elect new leaders and discuss key issues facing the profession. However, the spotlight was firmly on the presidential race, which turned into an intense contest between Isaac Ssemakade and his only challenger, Isaac Atukunda. Known for his maverick approach to law, Ssemakade’s victory was the highlight of the day, as he clinched the much-coveted presidency of the Uganda Law Society.

The Speke Resort Convention Centre in Munyonyo has rapidly become one of Uganda’s top venues for international conferences and summits. Since its commissioning in early 2024, the convention centre has hosted a series of high-level global events, attracting delegates from various sectors. The Uganda Law Society AGM is the latest in a line of significant gatherings that have taken place here, reinforcing its status as a preferred choice for international and local events.

The Uganda Law Society AGM is not the only prominent event the convention centre has hosted this year. In July 2024, the venue was the proud host of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) Global Symposium for Regulators, which attracted more than 900 delegates from across the world, including telecommunications regulators, industry leaders, and experts. The symposium focused on key developments and challenges in the telecommunications sector, further positioning Uganda as a hub for global dialogues on emerging technologies.

Other significant events hosted by the Speke Resort Convention Centre include:

• Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) Summit: A major diplomatic event that brought together leaders from across the globe to discuss international cooperation and non-alignment policies.
• Group of 77 (G77) Summit: Another high-profile diplomatic meeting that reinforced Uganda’s role in international dialogue and development.
• Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo: A showcase of Uganda’s rich cultural heritage and tourism potential, drawing participants from the tourism industry worldwide.

Speke Resort’s ability to attract and successfully host major events, such as the Uganda Law Society AGM, has been crucial to its growing reputation. Located on the shores of Lake Victoria, the venue offers world-class facilities that cater to large-scale conventions, exhibitions, and meetings. Its strategic location, combined with state-of-the-art amenities, has made it a top choice for organizations looking to hold events in Uganda.

The convention centre’s continuous hosting of global and regional summits enhances its status as a premier location for business, political, and professional gatherings. It not only benefits the venue itself but also strengthens Uganda’s global standing as a reliable and desirable destination for international events.

Isaac Ssemakade’s victory at the Uganda Law Society AGM signals a shift in leadership within the country’s legal community. Known for his bold, maverick style, Ssemakade’s rise to the presidency is expected to bring fresh perspectives and dynamic changes to the society. His only challenger, Isaac Atukunda, put up a spirited contest, but Ssemakade’s influence and popularity among members saw him secure the top spot.

Ssemakade’s election comes at a pivotal time, as the Uganda Law Society continues to navigate evolving legal challenges in the country. His leadership is expected to focus on advancing the society’s role in promoting justice, rule of law, and the protection of human rights in Uganda.