Chief Justice Martha Koome has introduced a series of reforms aimed at modernizing Kenya's justice sector by promoting digital courts, improving services for sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) survivors, and preparing the system for the 2027 General Election.

Speaking at the 38th National Council on the Administration of Justice (NCAJ) meeting, Koome emphasized the need for a coordinated and innovative approach to address complex challenges facing the justice system.

Key Reforms Launched

  • Justice Sector ICT Policy and Action Plan: Establishes a framework to expand digital services and improve information sharing among justice institutions, including integration with agencies such as the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, Kenya Prisons Service, National Transport and Safety Authority, and the Ministry of Lands.
  • Standard Operating Procedures on SGBV: Designed to enhance coordination and ensure survivors receive timely, dignified, and trauma-informed services without secondary victimization.
  • People-Centred Justice Guidelines: Focus on improving accessibility, affordability, and responsiveness of justice services based on the experiences of justice seekers.

Koome highlighted that technology is now essential for efficient justice delivery, reducing duplication, and enabling evidence-based decisions. She noted progress in electronic case management but urged stakeholders to embrace electronically authenticated documents fully to move towards a paperless justice system.

Other reforms under discussion include amendments to the Sexual Offences Bill to better combat SGBV and femicide, implementation of instant traffic fines, wildlife crime management, election readiness, child-friendly justice protocols, legal aid improvements, and specialized courts for substance abuse offenders.

Implementation Focus

The Chief Justice stressed that successful reform depends on effective implementation rather than policy adoption alone. She urged justice institutions to work seamlessly, as weaknesses in one area affect public confidence in the entire justice chain.

"The public experiences the justice system as a unified entity. Our success will be measured by tangible improvements felt by Kenyans who rely on these services daily," Koome said.