In a significant move towards enhancing access to justice and improving the efficiency of Kenya’s judicial system, Chief Justice Martha Koome, accompanied by a delegation of judges and distinguished guests, officially unveiled the Tribunals’ Shared Service Infrastructure and a newly established Tribunal Courtroom.
The event, held in Nairobi, marks a pivotal step in the judiciary’s ongoing efforts to modernize and streamline its operations.
The sun was bright and the atmosphere charged with anticipation as Chief Justice Koome arrived at the new facility,located within the heart of Nairobi’s legal district.
Flanked by senior judges, tribunal members, and invited dignitaries, she moved towards the entrance of the Tribunal Courtroom, a symbol of the judiciary’s commitment to enhancing the delivery of justice in Kenya.
With a smile, she took the ceremonial scissors from one of the invited guests and approached the ribbon stretched across the entrance.
The crowd, comprising judges, legal practitioners, and representatives from various governmental and non-governmental organizations, watched in eager anticipation.
As she cut the tape, applause erupted, signaling not just the opening of a new physical space, but the inauguration of a new era in the administration of justice in Kenya.
Cameras clicked furiously as Chief Justice Koome officially unveiled a plaque commemorating the occasion.
A Leap Towards Judicial Efficiency
In her remarks, Chief Justice Koome highlighted the importance of the Tribunals’ Shared Service Infrastructure.
“Today marks a significant milestone in our journey towards ensuring efficient and accessible justice for all Kenyans,” she stated.
“The establishment of this shared service infrastructure and the Tribunal Courtroom is a testament to our dedication to reforming our judicial processes and ensuring that justice is not delayed but served promptly.”
She explained that the Tribunals’ Shared Service Infrastructure is designed to provide a centralized support system for all tribunals in Kenya, ranging from administrative to specialized courts.
This infrastructure aims to enhance case management, improve communication, and reduce redundancy, thereby expediting the resolution of cases.
The New Tribunal Courtroom
Following her speech, the guests were given a tour of the new Tribunal Courtroom. Designed with modern amenities, the courtroom is equipped with state-of-the-art technology, including video conferencing capabilities to facilitate virtual hearings. This is particularly significant in light of the lessons learned during the COVID-19 pandemic, where digital platforms became essential for the continuation of judicial services.
The Tribunal Courtroom also features enhanced security measures and is fully accessible to persons with disabilities, reflecting the judiciary’s commitment to inclusivity and accessibility.
Justice Njoki Ndung’u, who was among the judges present, praised the initiative as a forward-thinking approach that aligns with global best practices.
“By consolidating our resources and utilizing shared services, we are not only saving time and money but also enhancing the quality of justice delivered to the public,” she said.
Members of the tribunal expressed their optimism about the new facilities.
Mary Wambui, a member of the Land Disputes Tribunal, shared her thoughts, saying, “This shared service infrastructure will greatly reduce the backlog of cases that have plagued our tribunals for years.
It will also allow us to focus more on delivering fair and timely judgments.”
Representatives from civil society organizations and the legal fraternity also lauded the judiciary for this initiative.
John Kamau, a lawyer with the Kenya Human Rights Commission, commented, “The introduction of this infrastructure is a game-changer for our tribunals. It signifies a commitment to transparency, efficiency, and, most importantly, justice for all.”
The unveiling of the Tribunals’ Shared Service Infrastructure and the Tribunal Courtroom is part of Chief Justice Koome’s broader vision of transforming Kenya’s judicial system into a more effective and responsive institution.
The judiciary has been actively pursuing reforms aimed at reducing case backlogs, enhancing access to justice, and improving overall public confidence in the legal system.
As the event concluded, Chief Justice Koome and her delegation left the new courtroom with a renewed sense of purpose and determination.
The Tribunals’ Shared Service Infrastructure and Tribunal Courtroom stand as symbols of progress, innovation, and the unwavering commitment to uphold justice in Kenya.
With these advancements, the judiciary aims to ensure that every Kenyan, regardless of their background or circumstances, has the opportunity to seek and receive justice in a fair, timely, and efficient manner. T
he journey ahead may still present challenges, but the strides made today are a significant step towards a brighter and more just future for all.
