By: Usman Fambuleh
IMATT College has once again made history, becoming the first institution in Sierra Leone to qualify for the 23rd Willem C. Vis East International Commercial Arbitration Moot after advancing through the fiercely contested African qualifying rounds.
The African rounds and closing ceremony were hosted at Strathmore University in Nairobi, bringing together some of the brightest law students from across the continent. IMATT College distinguished itself among top African institutions, demonstrating excellence in research, written advocacy, and oral argument.
This year’s closing ceremony featured a distinguished keynote address by Ann Claire Williams, retired United States Circuit Judge of the Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals and former District Judge of the Northern District of Illinois. She currently serves as Of Counsel at Jones Day. Her presence underscored the global prestige of the competition. In her remarks, Justice Williams emphasized the importance of advocacy, preparation, and integrity in shaping the next generation of international arbitration lawyers a message that resonated strongly with the IMATT team.
By qualifying for the Hong Kong rounds, scheduled for 17–22 March 2026, IMATT College has elevated Sierra Leone’s legal education to the international stage.
The Vis East Moot trains law students in resolving cross-border commercial disputes under international sales law and arbitration frameworks. It is regarded worldwide as one of the most prestigious platforms for nurturing future arbitration practitioners.
For Sierra Leone, this qualification is not just a college achievement it is a national breakthrough. IMATT College is proudly flying the country’s flag in the global legal arena, proving that Sierra Leonean students can compete confidently among the world’s best.
As the team prepares for Hong Kong, financial constraints remain a major challenge, particularly the cost of airfare. This historic journey now requires collective national support. Government institutions, corporate bodies, members of the Bar, alumni, and well-meaning Sierra Leoneans are encouraged to contribute toward securing the team’s tickets.
Supporting IMATT College is an investment in education, youth empowerment, and Sierra Leone’s future presence in international arbitration.