Prof. Mwakaje Earns Prestigious World Bank-Linked Appointment to Global Investment Disputes Panel
By Renancy Remmy, CMU
The University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM) has received international recognition following the appointment of Professor Saudin Jacob Mwakaje to the Panel of Conciliators of the International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID), one of the world's foremost institutions for resolving international investment disputes and a member of the World Bank Group.
Professor Mwakaje's designation, which takes effect on 2 June 2026 for a six-year term, places him among a select group of globally respected experts entrusted with facilitating the settlement of disputes between States and foreign investors through conciliation proceedings.
The appointment marks a significant professional achievement for Professor Saudin Jacob Mwakaje, an Associate Professor in intellectual property law at the University of Dar es Salaam School of Law (UDSoL) and the immediate former Chief Corporate Counsel and Secretary to the University Council.
It also underscores UDSM's growing international standing as a leading centre of scholarship, with its academics increasingly contributing to global debates and policy processes in law, governance and development.
ICSID, established under the Convention on the Settlement of Investment Disputes between States and Nationals of Other States, provides a neutral and internationally recognized framework for resolving investment disputes.
Through its arbitration and conciliation mechanisms, the institution plays a critical role in promoting investor confidence, supporting economic development and strengthening relations between host governments and international investors.
Membership of the ICSID Panels of Arbitrators and Conciliators is reserved for individuals of high moral standing and recognized competence in fields such as international law, dispute resolution, economics, public policy and investment governance.
Professor Mwakaje's appointment reflects decades of distinguished scholarship and professional contribution in investment law, public policy and international economic governance.
A Reflection of UDSM’s Strong Academic Standing and Scholarly Excellence
UDSM Deputy Vice Chancellor-Academic, Prof. Rose Upor described the recognition as a testament to both Professor Mwakaje's academic standing and the quality of research and scholarship cultivated at UDSM.
"This appointment demonstrates that expertise developed within Tanzania can contribute meaningfully to some of the world's most important legal and policy institutions”, Prof. Upor noted.
She added: "It is a recognition of Professor Mwakaje's scholarship, professionalism and commitment to advancing knowledge in areas that are increasingly important for global development”.
The appointment comes at a time when investment governance, sustainable development and dispute prevention are becoming increasingly central to Africa's economic transformation agenda. As countries seek to attract investment while safeguarding national interests, the role of independent experts in international dispute resolution continues to grow in importance.
For UDSM, the designation further strengthens the University's international profile and underscores its contribution to producing scholars whose expertise extends beyond academia into regional and global policy arenas.
The recognition is also expected to inspire students, young researchers and legal professionals across Tanzania by demonstrating how academic excellence, research and public service can open opportunities to contribute to institutions of global significance.
As Professor Mwakaje assumes his new responsibilities, UDSM has extended its congratulations and expressed confidence that he will serve with distinction while upholding the values of excellence, integrity and professionalism that characterize both the University and Tanzania.
His appointment not only brings honour to the University of Dar es Salaam but also adds Tanzanian expertise to one of the most influential international platforms for investment dispute resolution, further elevating the country's presence in global governance and legal affairs.