On February 9th, 2024, Ms. BURAYOBERA UMUZAYIRE Bibiane, the Vice Chairperson of the Rwanda Law Reform Commission (RLRC), delivered a public lecture on the role of the commission in legislative drafting at the Institute of Legal Practice and Development (ILPD). This lecture was an integral part of ILPD's training strategies.

Sharing her expertise with ILPD trainees, the Vice Chairperson highlighted various aspects, including the establishment of the RLRC, its mandate, the legislative drafting process, and the accessibility of legal instruments to the public. She underscored key functions of the Commission in the legislative drafting process.

Ms. UMUZAYIRE explained the importance of receiving and considering proposals for reform of laws submitted by institutions or interested individuals. She also stressed the need for compliance throughout the drafting process, including consultations, research, and scoping of regulated matters.

Furthermore, she emphasized the necessity of proper drafting of legislation, adhering to principles such as constitutionality, non-contradiction, consistency with existing legislation, gender considerations, and alignment with Rwandan culture, as well as harmonization with international agreements and treaties.

She also discussed the importance of reviewing the organization and structure of draft legislation and overseeing translation and language harmonization in Ikinyarwanda, English, and French.

Lastly, Ms. UMUZAYIRE highlighted the role of the RLRC in guiding legislation from the preparation of a draft to its publication in the Official Gazette of the Republic of Rwanda, while also providing legal opinions and advice.

RLRC Vice Chairperson's lecture provided valuable insights into the vital role played by the RLRC in shaping Rwanda's legal framework and ensuring its accessibility and effectiveness for all citizens.