Can I enforce a contract signed on WhatsApp for a supply deal in Uganda?

Yes. WhatsApp messages can be relied upon to enforce the agreement or recover your money, provided certain conditions are met. Under Ugandan law, electronic communications such as WhatsApp messages are recognised as data messages and are admissible in evidence. Where such messages clearly show offer and acceptance on essential terms such as price, quantities, and delivery timelines, they may constitute a valid and enforceable contract. In your case, the existence of the WhatsApp correspondence, coupled with payment of a deposit by mobile money, is strong evidence of intention to contract. If the supplier has failed or refused to deliver, you may rely on the messages and the proof of payment to demand performance, or recover the deposit as money had and received, and/or claim damages for breach of contract. Practically, you should preserve the WhatsApp messages, transaction receipts, and any related communications, and consider issuing a formal demand notice before instituting legal action.

Hello, you can enforce this contract since the courts nowadays recognise such correspondence as a contract as long as all essential terms were agreed upon.

Yes, courts have always enforced agreements contracted using communications via WhatsApp messages. There is a plethora of authorities that one can rely upon to enforce a contract entered into via WhatsApp. Section 9 of the Contracts Act provides for the elements of a valid contract and if these elements are present, the courts will not be reluctant to enforce your contract. You can cite Dr. Rodney Mugarura v Paramount Hospital Kampala Limited & Dr. Begumisa Simon (2024), where Uganda High Court ruled that a Kampala-based hospital was liable for unpaid fees for surgeries contracted via WhatsApp. The judge held that the exchange clearly constituted an offer and acceptance, forming a valid contract under the Contracts Act. There are many other authorities that you can use to back up your argument.