The phenomenon of conflicts has assumed a monstrous dimension and intrigue, threatening development in most African States. In the present day Africa, conflicts are mainly civil and motivated by political and economic considerations; they last longer, leaving the populations deeply traumatized and destroying countries more thoroughly than wars fought between nations. These conflicts have impacted negatively on the inflow of Direct Foreign Investments into Africa, hampered  economic development of African economies and accentuated the dire need for restorative justice and peace-building.  This brings to fore the crucial role of ADR in the promotion of these worthy objectives. Consequently, Restorative Justice, Peace-building and Economic Development; and the role of ADR in actualizing the foregoing goals, provide the theme for discussion at the Second NCMG African ADR Summit.

The role of ADR in the civil justice system has received worldwide acclaim. Its utility in increasing access to justice by providing timely, cost-effective and speedy resolution of conflicts has been severally demonstrated. However, the utility of ADR in the criminal justice system has not been appreciated in Africa. Many indeed do not realize that ADR has a crucial role to play in this regard.  Apt illustrations of ADR in this respect are the practice of Plea Bargaining and Victim Offender Mediation.

Consequently, the first day of the Summit will focus on Restorative Justice and the Criminal Justice System in Africa, with primary emphasis on Plea-Bargaining and Victim Offender Mediation. The second day will have as its primary focus, issues of African Economic Development through Project financing by Mega Finance institutions. Emphasis shall be given to the grievance-handling procedures (especially those involving mediated or facilitated approaches) engaged by several financial institutions including the Compliance Advisor/Ombudsman (CAO)  of the World Bank to address the concerns of project-impacted communities.

The Summit will not only explore the prospects of a justice system anchored on Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) and its potentials in fostering an enduring culture of justice, peace and economic development in Africa, it will also aim at synthesizing the experiences and views of renowned Specialists, Practitioners and Academics in the fast growing field of ADR and Conflict Management. With a total of 20 internationally renowned speakers drawn from the United States, United Kingdom, Kenya, Uganda, South Africa and Nigeria, the Second NCMG African ADR Summit promises to be yet another major learning curve and phenomenal milestone.