The Faculty of Law at the North-West University (NWU), in collaboration with the University of Fort Hare (UFH), hosted the Justice Yvonne Mokgoro Colloquium on 24 and 25 October 2024 in Mahikeng.

This event saw judges, legal scholars and human rights advocates gathering to remember the late Justice Yvonne Mokgoro’s legacy and discuss the role of Ubuntu in shaping South African law and justice.

Justice Yvonne Mokgoro, an alumnus of the NWU passed away in May 2024. She stepped down as Judge of the Constitutional Court of SA after serving from 1994 to 2009. She played a significant role in integrating Ubuntu, a philosophy that centres on humanity and community, into South Africa's legal system. Her rulings impacted socio-economic and human rights law, emphasising African principles and the potential of the law to uplift marginalised communities. In 2013 she was also honoured with an Alumni Award from the NWU.

Judge Lulama Flatela of the Gauteng High Court delivered the keynote address, reflecting on Justice Mokgoro’s legacy, especially her promotion of inclusivity within the legal profession.

"Justice Yvonne Mokgoro’s career was a significant achievement for African women, showing us that what once seemed impossible was attainable. Her journey broke barriers and demonstrated that we, too, can aspire to leadership in law," said Judge Flatela.

"By incorporating Ubuntu into her rulings, Justice Mokgoro emphasised a justice system grounded in humanity and reconciliation, setting a precedent for future judicial decisions. Her influence extended beyond her legal decisions to the way she embodied Ubuntu, inspiring many of us to pursue law with a focus on dignity and community," Judge Flatela added.

The first day of the two-day colloquium also featured a panel discussion on equality and justice, which included conversations about child maintenance enforcement, legislative oversight and the role of Ubuntu in constitutional law.

On the second day, retired Constitutional Court Justice Albie Sachs, a close colleague of Justice Mokgoro, delivered a keynote address paying tribute to her work. Judge Sachs led a roundtable discussion on ethics, Ubuntu and the legal profession, exploring the role of empathy and community in justice today.

Other sessions covered topics such as customary law, transformation in the legal profession and financial inclusion, with a focus on how Ubuntu informs economic policies and access to justice in South Africa.

The colloquium concluded with a gala dinner, reinforcing Justice Mokgoro’s lasting impact and the ongoing commitment of the NWU and UFH to promoting dialogue on justice and community.

Attending the Justice Yvonne Mokgoro Colloquium are from left Prof Clement Marumoagae, Prof Howard Chitimira, Judge Luleka Flatela, and Prof Retsilisitsoe Phooko.