The Supreme Court of Kenya has been honoured with the African Bar Association’s (AfBA) Medal of Merit for Judicial Excellence.
This is a continental recognition of its leadership in advancing transformative jurisprudence and safeguarding constitutional democracy across Africa.
The award, presented to Chief Justice Martha Koome at the Supreme Court in Nairobi, celebrates the Court’s decade-long contribution to constitutionalism, democratic resilience, and public trust in the rule of law since its establishment under the 2010 Constitution.
Receiving the accolade alongside her fellow judges, Deputy Chief Justice Philomena Mwilu, Justices Njoki Ndungu, Isaac Lenaola, and William Ouko, CJ Koome described the recognition as both an honour and a solemn reminder of the Judiciary’s duty to serve the public with integrity and fairness.
“We are humbled that the work of the Supreme Court, born out of duty, guided by conscience, and anchored in the Constitution, has found resonance beyond our borders,” Koome said.
Also Read: Court Orders Wife to Return Dowry, Including Cows, to Estranged Husband
“This recognition affirms not only the effort of one Court but the collective spirit of a nation that believes in the rule of law.”
CJ Koome about the Supreme Court of Kenya
Koome stated that the award shows Kenya’s democratic maturity and the confidence citizens continue to place in judicial institutions, even in times of political tension.
“This award is particularly meaningful because it speaks to the highest ideals of judicial calling, excellence in service, fidelity to the Constitution, and faith in the rule of law,” she added.
“The trust placed in the Judiciary must be earned daily through fairness, integrity, and excellence.”
In its citation, the AfBA commended the Court for ushering in a new era of transformative constitutionalism, citing landmark rulings such as the 2012 Advisory Opinion on the two-thirds gender principle, the Rai v. Rai decision on social justice, and the 2017 and 2022 presidential election petitions.
According to the AfBA, the Supreme Court’s 2022 presidential election ruling set a gold standard for judicial excellence in Africa, demonstrating independence, evidence-based reasoning, and commitment to stability in times of political uncertainty.
Also Read: Deaths Confirmed as Another Landside Hits Elgeyo Marakwet
AfBA on Judiciary in Kenya
The Association further praised Kenya’s apex court for “fostering public trust in electoral justice and advancing good governance,” describing its jurisprudence as a “pillar of democratic resilience.”
Advocate Charles Kihara, AfBA’s Vice President for East Africa, presented the award on behalf of the Association’s headquarters in Accra, Ghana.
He was accompanied by Advocate Nicholas Sumba, AfBA’s Director of Information and Publicity, and Senior Counsel Charles Kanjama and Kamau Karori.
Chief Justice Koome lauded her colleagues, saying the award affirms Africa’s growing judicial leadership.
“African courts are not merely followers of global justice, but leaders in shaping it,” she said. “We will continue to walk steadfastly in service to truth and justice, nurturing jurisprudence that strengthens democracy, protects human dignity, and inspires trust in the rule of law.”
Follow our WhatsApp Channel and X Account for real-time news updates.
