Hello, I am Advocate Brownie Ebal
I am a legal Practitioner, Venture Capitalist and Philanthropist.
Welcome to my site.
I love life, travelling, food, beauty, the law, leadership and meeting people from diverse backgrounds. I hope to inspire each one of you with my various articles as I share from my experiences around our beautiful world.
I live in Kampala, Uganda.
-
Article 45: Advancing Business and Human Rights: Key Insights from the IBA ESG Accelerator Programme.
Written by Adv. Brownie Ebal and Victoria Nakiyimba
The IBA ESG Accelerator Training Programme: Business and Human Rights webinar, held on March 12, 2025, brought together legal experts and industry leaders to discuss the evolving landscape of ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) considerations in business and the role of legal practitioners in African jurisdictions. Hosted by Webber Wentzel in collaboration with Linklaters, the session aimed to equip lawyers with a deeper understanding of how ESG issues shape daily legal practice.
The discussion featured a distinguished panel, including Clarice Wambua (Cliffe Dekker Hofmeyr, Kenya), Damilola S. Olawuyi SAN (Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Qatar), Prince Osisiadan (SUCCA Africa Ltd, Ghana), and Jacob Oben (Bennani & Associés LLP, Cameroon). Each speaker highlighted key challenges, progress, and actionable solutions for integrating human rights considerations into business operations.
One of the pressing concerns raised was the increasing threats and aggression faced by human rights activists, particularly when addressing corporate accountability and government policies. Clarice Wambua emphasized the need for anti-SLAPP laws (Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation) to protect activists from retaliatory legal actions aimed at silencing them.
Prince Osisiadan provided insight into Ghana’s National Baseline Assessment and National Action Plan (NAP) for business and human rights. While Ghana has a strong legal and constitutional framework, several challenges persist, including weak enforcement of labor rights, land acquisition policies, and environmental protections. He noted that corporate accountability remains limited, with businesses often lacking clear human rights due diligence requirements. Access to legal remedies also remains a hurdle due to long court delays, inadequate legal aid, and weak alternative dispute resolution mechanisms. Vulnerable groups—including women, persons with disabilities, and marginalized communities—face systemic discrimination, while sector-specific risks in mining, petroleum, finance, and telecommunications continue to raise concerns over workplace safety and privacy rights.
Despite these challenges, Ghana has made progress in aligning some laws and policies with international standards, strengthening democratic governance and ensuring civil liberties. The National Action Plan outlines responsibilities for both the state and businesses, emphasizing the need to strengthen legal frameworks, enhance monitoring and accountability, and promote ethical corporate policies that respect human rights. To ensure access to remedies, the plan also advocates for improved legal aid services and more robust corporate grievance mechanisms.
Jacob Oben echoed similar concerns in the Cameroonian context, pointing to issues such as forced labor, eviction without compensation, and a lack of transparency in corporate dealings. He stressed the importance of a well-structured National Action Plan to address these human rights violations and improve accountability.
Damilola S. Olawuyi SAN underscored the critical role of education and capacity-building in achieving meaningful human rights progress in business. He outlined key steps needed for effective implementation, including clarity in human rights obligations, state leadership by example, and adequate budget allocation to ensure enforcement. He emphasized that if governments expect private sector compliance, they must demonstrate commitment within state-owned enterprises as well.
The webinar reinforced the urgent need for a collaborative approach to addressing business and human rights challenges across African jurisdictions. Governments, businesses, and legal professionals must work together to strengthen legal frameworks, ensure corporate accountability, and provide effective remedies for human rights violations. The discussions made it clear that while significant progress has been made, sustained efforts and systemic changes are necessary to create a business environment that truly respects and upholds human rights.For more information about IBA programmes, please click on the link below; https://www.ibanet.org/
-
Article 44: Life After Campus: Identifying Life Opportunities
Written by Brownie Ebal and Victoria Nakiyimba
On the 6th of March, 2025, the Kitabu Buk project team, comprising Brownie Ebal and Angela Ameso, joined KEMET team lead Andrew Ogwal at Uganda Christian University, for a career talk on Life After Campus: Identifying Life Opportunities. The session focused on equipping students with strategies to navigate post-university life, whether through employment, entrepreneurship, or leadership.
Angela Ameso set the foundation by addressing the realities of life after campus. She highlighted the shift from a structured academic environment to an unpredictable world were financial independence, career decisions, and personal growth become immediate priorities. Many graduates struggle with unemployment, uncertainty, and financial instability, but those who
actively prepare tend to transition more smoothly. She emphasized that success is not automatic—it requires intentional effort, adaptability, and a commitment to lifelong learning. Miss Angela also hinted that volunteering plays a significant role in career growth, as it provides hands-on experience and networking opportunities—her experience as a Young African Leaders
Initiative (YALI), a United States Government fully funded leadership Programme, fellow through her work with Kitabu- Buk Project reinforced how such engagements open doors.
Brownie Ebal focused on exploring career opportunities and provided practical strategies to enhance employability. She advised students to keep a notebook to track goals, job applications, and career development steps. Researching potential employers and understanding company
cultures can help graduates tailor their applications and prepare effectively for interviews. She also emphasized the importance of building an online presence by posting relevant content on professional platforms. Using design tools like Canva can improve resumes, presentations and
personal branding. She encouraged students to view career development as an investment, where effort and strategic input determine the returns.
Andrew Ogwal introduced entrepreneurship as an alternative to traditional employment and provided insights into business development. He explained the Canvas Business Model as a tool for structuring and evaluating business ideas. Drawing from B.K Tiny Habits, he emphasized the importance of starting small, staying consistent, and building sustainable business practices. He also spoke on leadership, highlighting how individuals can make an impact regardless of their personality type. He encouraged introverts to embrace leadership in extroverted spaces by focusing on their strengths, preparation, and strategic communication. He discussed the
significance of leaving a mark through meaningful contributions and handling setbacks with grace, showing resilience in leadership even after challenges.
The session concluded with a call to action for students to take ownership of their future. Whether pursuing employment, entrepreneurship, or leadership roles, success comes from preparation, adaptability, and continuous growth. The speakers reinforced that the opportunities exist, but it is those who are proactive, intentional, and open to learning who will thrive in the
post-campus journey.
For more information about these career talks kindly visit:
https://kitabubukproject.org/
-
Article 43: Legal and Practical Implications of Airspace Blockades: Insights from the East African Law Society Webinar
Written by Brownie Ebal and Victoria Nakiyimba.
The East African Law Society is the regional Bar Association of East Africa. It was formed in 1995 and incorporated in Tanzania. The EALS has over 42,000 individual members and also has seven national Bar associations as members: Law Society of Kenya, Tanganyika Law Society, Uganda Law Society, Zanzibar Law Society, Rwanda Bar Association, Burundi Bar Association, South Sudan Bar Association and Ethiopian Federal Advocates Association. The Ethiopian Federal Advocates Association is the latest Bar Association to join the Society. One of its key roles is to develop the capacity of the legal profession to respond to emerging challenges to businesses, governance and trade, among other areas. In line with its mandate, the East African Law Society recently hosted a high-level webinar on “Air and Space Blockade of Civil Aircraft: The Law and Its Implications” on 6th March 2025. The session, convened by Arnold Agaba, Chair of the East African Law Society’s Committee on Air and Space, brought together experts to discuss the legal frameworks governing airspace closures, their practical effects, and potential dispute resolution mechanisms.
The panel featured Dr. William Kiema, a lecturer at Kisii University, Mr. Francis Okello Abe, Solicitor and Arbitration Specialist, Francis Mostyn & Co.- Solicitors, Jean Bosco Mangana, Managing partner, Mutagana Partners and an expert in international law and aviation security.
Dr. William K. provided a detailed overview of the legal instruments governing airspace blockades, emphasizing the Chicago Convention (1944) as the primary international treaty that governs state sovereignty over airspace. Article 1 of the convention affirms a state’s right to control its airspace, while Article 9 allows for airspace closures only under military necessity or public safety concerns. Additionally, the UN Charter plays a role in imposing “no-fly zones” through UN Security Council resolutions, as seen in cases such as the Libyan no-fly zone implemented for humanitarian reasons.
Mr. Francis O. explored the practical consequences of airspace restrictions, particularly their impact on aviation operations and economies. He highlighted the Russia-EU airspace restrictions as a contemporary case study, explaining how the EU’s ban on Russian aircraft in 2022 led to a retaliatory ban by Russia on 36 European nations. This forced airlines to reroute flights, leading to increased fuel costs, longer travel times, and operational inefficiencies. He pointed out that such restrictions have placed European airlines at a disadvantage, demonstrating how airspace blockades can be wielded as powerful geopolitical tools.
Mr. Jean Bosco Mutagana expanded on the diplomatic and humanitarian challenges that arise from airspace closures. While states have the right to control their airspace, these actions must balance security interests with international cooperation. Blockades can disrupt the delivery of essential services such as humanitarian aid and emergency evacuations, violate international human rights—particularly the right to free movement—and have significant economic repercussions, including trade restrictions and retaliatory sanctions. He cited the 2017 Qatar airspace blockade, imposed by Saudi Arabia, UAE, Egypt, and Bahrain, as an example of an airspace restriction with profound legal and diplomatic implications. The case was eventually brought before the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and the International Court of Justice (ICJ), where it was determined that such blockades should not be used as political coercion tools.
The discussion then turned to dispute resolution mechanisms in airspace conflicts. Dr. William K. and Mr. Francis O. highlighted that the ICAO Council is the primary body responsible for adjudicating disputes, but appeals can escalate to the ICJ, as seen in the Qatar case. However, many states prefer diplomatic negotiations or economic retaliation over legal proceedings due to enforcement challenges. Mr. Francis O. also emphasized the growing importance of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR), particularly mediation and arbitration, as more effective and practical means of resolving airspace disputes. He noted ongoing diplomatic discussions between the EU and Russia as an example of states seeking negotiated solutions rather than prolonged litigation.
The webinar concluded with a call for greater international coordination to prevent politically motivated airspace blockades. While states have the right to control their airspace, excessive restrictions disrupt global trade and aviation. The panelists agreed that legal frameworks must evolve to balance national security concerns with economic and humanitarian interests. They also highlighted the need for more lawyers specializing in aviation law, particularly in Africa, where air transport is critical for economic growth and regional integration. The panel also highlighted that airspace closures should remain a last resort rather than a geopolitical tool.
As air travel continues to shape global diplomacy and trade, the role of legal frameworks in regulating airspace blockades will remain a crucial area for legal and policy debates.
For more information about the East African law Society and the industry experts kindly visit the EALS website on: https://ealawsociety.org/
-
Article 42: Execution: Getting the Right Things Done in 2025
Written by Brownie Ebal and Nakiyimba Victoria.
A crowd of over 500 people gathered at the Kampala Serena Hotel Victoria Ball room for a night of inspiration hosted by Pepe Minambo on 26th February 2025.In any pursuit of success, strategy is key, but execution is what truly determines the outcome. At An Evening of Inspiration, Pepe Minambo shared powerful insights on how to bridge the gap between planning and achievement. Using a striking analogy, he reminded the audience: “A cat that dreams to be a lion must lose its appetite for rats.” This was a call to abandon small distractions and focus on the bigger picture.
One of the key reasons strategies fail is the lack of a clear vision. A plan without a defined purpose quickly loses direction. Even with a strong vision, ineffective processes, poor communication, and lack of commitment can hinder execution. Many organisations struggle because employees do not fully buy into the strategy, leading to loss of momentum and, ultimately, failure. Execution is not just about setting goals; it requires sustained recognition, motivation, and clear direction as highlighted by Dr. Fabian Kasi, Managing Director, Centenary Bank. He also stated that for one to execute their strategy, there are hard decisions that need to be made. These include firing the people who are not fit for the job and hiring a more
competent and dedicated team.
Proscovia Nabbanja, Chief Executive Officer, Uganda National Oil Company, stated that to develop winning strategies, it is essential to set clear milestones and celebrate small wins along the way. Achieving long-term success requires balancing stretch goals—ambitious targets that push growth—with normal targets that ensure steady progress. Communication plays a vital role in execution, and for any strategy to succeed, information must flow freely both upwards and downwards within an organization.
She stated that at UNOC, the vision is understood from the cleaners to the CEO. the receptionist should be able to clearly explain the vision of the company to all the clients that walk into the company. She believes that when employees understand the bigger picture and their role within it, engagement and productivity improve. Additionally, leveraging productivity tools can make execution smoother and more efficient.
Jonathan V. Cuevas emphasised the importance of using technology, such as AI assistants, to optimize work processes and stay on track. He highlighted that the reality of workplace engagement today is concerning where studies show that only 23% of employees are thriving at work, while 59% are quietly quitting—showing up but lacking motivation and involvement. Even more alarming, 18% are actively disengaged, openly dissatisfied and unproductive. He stated that to shift disengaged employees toward engagement, organisations must first measure engagement levels regularly. Furthermore, open discussions should be encouraged to understand the barriers holding employees back. When people feel heard, valued, and are given opportunities to contribute meaningfully, their commitment to execution increases. Therefore, as CEO’s or management in a company, we should endeavor to engage our employees and ensure that they feel heard and are valued.
Well renowned inspirational speaker, Robert Burale, stated that for one to ably execute their goals, they should have 4 people in their corner. The coach, mentor, sponsor and pace setter. The coach will provide guidance, support, and feedback on your improvement journey, the mentor is someone you admire, who has walked the same journey as you and who will use their experience and skills to guide and inspire you, the sponsor will speak your name in rooms, you have will not have access to and will actively advocate for and support your advancement and growth, and finally; the pace setter will set the high standards for you to follow so you can be able to achieve your targets and surpass them.
In a nutshell, the conversation underscored that strategy without execution is meaningless. Success in 2025 will not come from merely setting goals but from actively working towards them, ensuring alignment, accountability, and a culture of continuous improvement. For those looking to turn their plans into tangible results, it is time to refine execution—because in the end, it is not just about having the right strategy, but about getting the right things done.
For more information; kindly subscribe to Pepe Minambo’s You tube channel for more inspiring content: https://www.youtube.com/@pepeminambotv1207
-
Article 41: The Cure for Insecurity: Embracing God’s Security and Confidence
Written by Brownie Ebal
As we go through life, we face setbacks and often second-guess ourselves. It is heartbreaking to see young people struggling with mental health challenges, some even taking their own lives. This article is meant to offer encouragement and hope during dark times, reminding you that you
are not alone.I have experienced this myself, as have many others. My deepest moments of self-doubt came when I started my master’s program. It was an incredibly challenging transition—I found myself in a new environment, struggling to adjust to a different way of life.
My classmates seemed far ahead of me, always prepared, while I felt like I was lagging behind. The coursework was intense—we had to read over 600 pages of a judgment for just one case, and each class required reading multiple cases. It was overwhelming.
During this time, I found myself questioning everything, even doubting God’s providence and guidance. But in the midst of it all, I found solace in a preaching by Joyce Meyer. Here are my key takeaways—lessons that may encourage you if you ever find yourself in a similar season of doubt.Do not doubt yourself or God’s purpose for your life.
Security is part of our inheritance from God. He desires for us to be safe, confident, and free from fear. However, many people struggle with insecurity, constantly worrying about what others think or fearing failure. True security comes not from external validation but from knowing who we are in Christ.Our security is not found in money, status, or other people’s opinions—it comes from God. Isaiah 54:17 reminds us: “No weapon that is formed against you shall prosper… This [peace, righteousness, security, triumph over opposition] is the heritage of the servants of the Lord.” This means that our confidence is not based on circumstances but on God’s unshakable
promises. When we trust Him, we can live free from fear and anxiety.Many people are afraid to try new things because they fear failure. But failing at something does not make you a failure. Proverbs 24:16 says: “For though the righteous fall seven times, they rise again.” Think about a baby learning to walk. They fall multiple times, but they do not stop trying. In the same way, we should not be discouraged by setbacks. Instead, we should see them as part of the journey to growth.
Confidence is not about never feeling afraid—it is about trusting God despite how we feel. John 10:28-29 reassures us: “No one can snatch them out of my hand.” This means that our security is in God, not in what we see or feel. Even when we do not feel confident, we can still choose to act in faith, knowing that God is with us.
The enemy often uses people—even those close to us—to bring discouragement. But our identity is not based on others’ opinions. 1 Samuel 17:23-29 tells the story of David facing Goliath. Before David even fought the giant, his own family doubted him. However, David knew who he was in God, and he did not let their words stop him. Similarly, we all have giants in our lives—challenges that try to shake our faith. But 1 Samuel 17:30 reminds us: “David turned away to someone else and brought up the same matter.” Sometimes, we need to turn away from negativity and focus on what God says about us. Romans 8:35 declares that we are more than
conquerors in Christ!
Our feelings are temporary, but God’s word is eternal. 2 Corinthians 5:21 says: “God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.” Even when we feel unworthy or inadequate, we should remind ourselves of what God says about us.
We are loved, chosen, and victorious through Him.
One of the greatest sources of security is knowing that God is always by our side. Joshua 1:5 promises: “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” And Psalm 23:3 reminds us that God restores our souls and guides us on the right path. When fear or doubt creeps in, we can stand firm in the knowledge that God is in control and will take care of every situation.
Overcoming insecurity starts with shifting our focus from ourselves to God. When we understand that our security comes from Him, we can step out in faith, try new things, and live confidently, knowing that no challenge is too great for God. Instead of living by fear or other people’s opinions, we should hold onto God’s promises, walk in His truth, and trust that He will always be with us.For more insights, watch: https://youtu.be/8Z2qGCO6uhk?si=tct1d-zzt0VLylf-– Joyce Meyer.
About Me
I love reading, writing, attending events, learning, leadership and meeting new people.
I hold a Masters Degree in International Law and I am passionate about life.
If you are interested in learning more about self discovery and becoming the best version of yourself.
Follow Me On
Subscribe To My Newsletter
Subscribe for new stories and exclusive content.
BecomingGolden 