The Judiciary in Kenya has undergone significant reforms in 2024, enhancing its efficiency, independence, and accessibility. Spearheaded by Chief Justice Martha Koome, these changes have been pivotal in improving access to justice, although challenges such as inadequate funding persist.
Leveraging Technology for Better Service Delivery
The year saw a substantial push towards digitisation, aimed at streamlining judicial processes and improving service delivery. Key advancements included the nationwide implementation of the e-filing system and the expansion of the Case Tracking System (CTS). These initiatives enhanced efficiency by simplifying case management and tracking.
The digitisation of court records was another milestone, ensuring easier access to case files and improving transparency. Moreover, tools like the Management Dashboard and Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system were introduced to enable data-driven decision-making and streamline administrative functions.
Investments in ICT infrastructure, including connectivity to the National Optical Fiber Backbone Infrastructure (NOFBI) and Local Area Network (LAN) upgrades, bolstered the reliability of digital platforms. These developments have been instrumental in reducing delays and making judicial processes more accessible to the public.
Improved Access to Justice
Access to justice saw notable improvements through the establishment and upgrading of courts and tribunals nationwide. Five new High Court stations were launched, bringing the number of counties with High Courts to 46. Notably, Chief Justice Koome inaugurated the High Court at Makadara Law Courts in November 2024. Set to begin operations in January 2025, this court will focus on criminal cases and oversee magistrates’ courts at Makadara and JKIA.
Additional courts such as the Dagoreti Law Courts, launched in October, and new divisions of the Employment and Labour Relations Court and Environment and Land Court have decongested existing facilities. The establishment of 27 Small Claims Courts and operationalisation of 57 mobile courts have further reduced the average distance for accessing legal services, particularly in remote areas.
Tribunals also witnessed reforms, with two transitioning from the Executive to the Judiciary and new sub-registries established in Kisumu and Embu. These changes have enhanced the accessibility and efficiency of judicial services, bringing them closer to the people.
Security Enhancements Following Tragedy
Security within the Judiciary became a priority following the tragic shooting of Makadara Principal Magistrate Monica Kivuti. The incident highlighted vulnerabilities in the safety of judicial personnel and court users. In response, security measures were heightened, and a High Court was established at Makadara to address infrastructure challenges.
Staffing and Strategic Transfers
The Judiciary recruited 957 employees in 2024, including 20 High Court Judges and 119 Judicial Officers. This brought the total workforce to 7,077, or 68% of the approved establishment. Efforts to promote inclusivity saw 2% of the workforce comprised of persons with disabilities.
Strategic transfers of 31 Environment and Land Court (ELC) Judges were effected to enhance the Judiciary’s role in climate change mitigation. The transfers were aligned with the Climate Justice Conference held in Eldoret, underscoring the Judiciary’s commitment to addressing environmental challenges through adjudication and public interest litigation.
Funding Challenges Persist
Despite these advancements, inadequate funding remains a pressing issue. Chief Justice Koome, during the launch of the Judiciary’s performance report, SOJAR, emphasised the need for increased resource allocation to meet growing demands. Emerging needs, such as enhanced security and improved infrastructure, further strain existing resources.
Conclusion
The Judiciary’s reforms in 2024 mark significant progress toward enhancing access to justice and improving service delivery. While challenges like funding constraints and security concerns remain, the strides made in leveraging technology, expanding judicial reach, and strengthening the system’s integrity highlight a transformative year for Kenya’s Judiciary. With continued support and investment, the Judiciary is poised to further its mission of delivering justice to all Kenyans.
