Rwanda’s future lawyers challenged to strengthen legal arguments on hospital protection in war

By Elias Hakizimana.

Rwanda’s future lawyers have been challenged to strengthen their legal reasoning on armed conflict and civilian protection, with judges at a national moot court competition stressing the importance of applying international humanitarian law accurately.

The challenge came during the 10th National International Humanitarian Law (IHL) Moot Court Competition, held in Kigali on October 15–16, 2026, which focused on protecting medical facilities and personnel during armed conflict.

Judges urged participants to improve their analysis of armed conflicts, proportionality, precautions to minimise civilian harm and the use of relevant case law. They also emphasised the importance of preparing for judicial questions, managing time and defending legal arguments without making unnecessary concessions.

Justice Kalihangabo Isabelle, speaking on behalf of the Chief Justice of Rwanda, said protecting medical facilities and personnel was a legal obligation essential to preserving human life and dignity.

“More than a humanitarian aspiration, the protection of medical facilities and medical personnel in armed conflict is a legal obligation and an essential condition for preserving human life and dignity,” she said.

She warned that inadequate protection affects entire communities by threatening medical personnel and obstructing access to healthcare.

“The consequences extend far beyond the immediate victims because the ability of entire communities to survive and recover is undermined,” Kalihangabo said.

Aurelie Grange, head of mission of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) in Rwanda, said the competition gave students an opportunity to engage with a fundamental humanitarian question.

“How can IHL protect human life and dignity in times of conflict?” she asked.

“Hospitals, ambulances, medical personnel and patients must remain protected under IHL,” Grange said, adding that respect for this rule was “an essential expression of humanity amid armed conflict.”

Innocent Musonera, a senior lecturer at the University of Rwanda and chair of the steering committee on IHL, said the competition helps students develop practical skills needed in their legal careers.

“By combining legal research, written memorials and oral presentations, the Moot Court brings theory and practice, deepens students’ understanding of IHL and develops the skills they will need as future legal practitioners,” he said.

Musonera said the competition also offers successful teams opportunities to participate in regional or continental competitions, broadening their experience and allowing them to represent Rwanda internationally.

The event featured simulated legal proceedings and a public lecture by Helen Obregón Gieseken, an ICRC legal adviser.

Kalihangabo urged participants to apply their knowledge in their future careers, including as judges, prosecutors, investigators and advocates, and help ensure that legal obligations are respected in practice.

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