At just 26 years old, Smith Kiiza is rapidly becoming one of the most influential young lawyers in the international legal arena. His story is one of exceptional academic achievement, diverse global practice, and an unwavering commitment to redefining the possibilities of legal education and practice across continents.
Currently based in California, Kiiza is completing his second Master’s degree in Business and Corporate Law from the University of California, Davis (UC Davis) School of Law. This milestone is just the latest chapter in a career that has already seen him excel in multiple fields of law, both academically and professionally. In parallel with his studies at UC Davis, Kiiza is also pursuing a Ph.D. in Law, cementing his reputation as a dedicated scholar committed to pushing the boundaries of legal knowledge.
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Kiiza’s legal journey began in Uganda, where he earned his undergraduate law degree and quickly established himself as a rising star in the field. However, his academic ambitions soon took him beyond the borders of Africa. In 2022, Kiiza made legal history when he became the first African lawyer to earn a Master of Laws (LL.M.) from India. He pursued his studies at Shoolini University in Solan, Himachal Pradesh, graduating with an impressive 8.5 CGPA in Criminal Law, placing him among the top performers in his cohort. His admission to the Indian Bar Council further solidified his standing as a trailblazer, becoming the first African to achieve this distinction.
What sets Kiiza apart from many of his peers is his ability to combine academic achievement with practical legal experience. Over the course of his career, he has gained legal practice experience in three continents—Africa, Asia, and North America. This includes work in seven African countries, five Asian countries, and two countries in the Americas, giving him a unique and broad perspective on the global legal landscape. His expertise spans a wide range of legal areas, including criminal law, corporate law, family law, and civil litigation.
Kiiza’s practical experience is further highlighted by his contributions to Uganda’s legislative framework. He has been instrumental in drafting and guiding several key laws, including the Local Governments Act, the NSSF Act, the Parliamentary Elections Act, and the Presidential Election Act. His work on these important pieces of legislation has had a profound impact on Uganda’s legal and governance systems. Additionally, Kiiza independently drafted the Tree Planting Bill, showcasing his commitment to integrating legal solutions with environmental sustainability. His legislative work demonstrates a deep understanding of the role law can play in shaping society for the better.
His academic pursuits and legal practice go hand in hand. Kiiza’s journey is not just about acquiring knowledge; it is about applying that knowledge to create tangible change. His role as a legal educator is another testament to his commitment to shaping the future of law. He has served as a part-time lecturer at Kampala International University and the Islamic University in Uganda, where he taught courses in Administrative Law, International Trade and Investments, and Intellectual Property Rights. His passion for teaching reflects his belief that legal education should be accessible and practical, equipping students with the tools they need to succeed in an increasingly complex global legal environment.
Now, in California, Kiiza is preparing to take the California Bar Exam, positioning himself to practice law in one of the most sophisticated and competitive legal markets in the world. His decision to focus on business and corporate law at UC Davis reflects his forward-thinking approach to legal practice. California’s booming economy, global influence, and diverse legal landscape offer endless opportunities for a lawyer of his caliber, particularly in areas like corporate governance, mergers and acquisitions, and international business law. By broadening his expertise in these areas, Kiiza is strategically positioning himself to become a major player on the international legal stage.
Kiiza’s ambitions do not stop with national or even regional boundaries. He is registered with several prestigious legal societies, including the Uganda Law Society, the East African Law Society, and the Asian Law Society, emphasizing his commitment to a truly global legal practice. His vision is clear: to become an international lawyer with a focus on criminal, corporate, and human rights law. With his academic and professional background, combined with his strategic position in both the U.S. and Indian legal markets, this goal is well within his reach.
In addition to his legal practice and education, Kiiza has also made significant contributions to legal scholarship. He is the author of over 20 books, covering topics from law to business, spirituality, and relationships. His works are widely available on platforms like Amazon, and he has published numerous papers in international journals on topics such as human rights, constitutional law, and the rights of children with disabilities. Kiiza’s scholarship is as diverse as his legal practice, reflecting his commitment to a holistic understanding of law and its impact on society.
Looking ahead, Kiiza remains focused on achieving his long-term goals. One of his key aspirations is to work with United Nations organizations, where his expertise in criminal and corporate law, combined with his global perspective, would be invaluable. His qualifications already meet many of the requirements for such a role, and his continued academic achievements and international legal practice bring him ever closer to this goal.
Smith Kiiza’s story is a powerful reminder of what can be achieved through dedication, hard work, and a vision that transcends borders. His ability to balance academic rigor with practical legal work, his contributions to legislative reform, and his commitment to educating the next generation of legal professionals make him a truly remarkable figure in the world of law. At just 26, he has already made history, and the legal community will undoubtedly see much more from him in the years to come.
For aspiring legal professionals, Kiiza’s journey serves as an inspiration. His message is clear: success in law requires not just talent, but also perseverance, faith, and a willingness to explore opportunities beyond one’s immediate surroundings. With his eyes set on becoming a global legal leader, Smith Kiiza is well on his way to transforming the future of law on an international scale.sk
