ATTENTION: News editors
Media Advisory
Monday, 07 April 2025

South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa signed the Expropriation Act 13 of 2024 into Law on 23 January 2025 to address historical land issues. Since then, there has been a myriad of social, political and legal challenges to the Act.

On the backdrop of this, the University of Johannesburg (UJ) will host a distinguished public lecture to be delivered by Professor Githu Muigai, former Attorney General of Kenya, constitutional law expert, author, and leading African jurist.

Since independence, South Africa, much like most of sub-Saharan Africa has continued to struggle with the lasting impact of colonial land systems and the complexities of post-independence constitutional reforms. Kenya’s constitutional journey, from 1963 to the present, reflects the broader African challenge of addressing historical injustices while navigating political realities and the need for equitable land reform.

Prof. Muigai, a highly respected legal scholar with over 30 years of experience, will provide an in-depth analysis of Africa’s post-independence constitutional evolution. His insights, grounded in legal theory and jurisprudence, draw from his landmark publication, Power, Politics & Law: Dynamics of Constitutional Change in Kenya, 1887–2022.

Details of the public lecture:

Date: Monday, 14 April 2025

Venue: Sun International Auditorium, School of Tourism and Hospitality (STH), Bunting Road Campus, University of Johannesburg.

Time: 17:30 for 18:00

Format: Hybrid- Link for online attendance available upon request

The lecture aims to explore the successes, failures, and ongoing challenges of land reform in post-independence Africa. It will also share comparative constitutional insights, with a particular focus on Kenya as a case study. Additionally, the engagement seeks to provide thought leadership on policy, governance, and historical redress through the lens of law.

This event will draw legal scholars, students, policymakers, civil society actors, media representatives, and members of the broader academic and African studies community.

Ends.

Note to the media: Space is limited and therefore RSVPs are essential. Please RSVP by midday 08 April 2025 via Prof. Githu Muigai Public Lecture RSVP link

For Further information and to facilitate interviews, contact: