Chief Justice Martha Koome has officially opened the Kamwangi Law Courts in Gatundu North, Kiambu County.
This new facility marks the 141st magistrates’ court in the country, a significant milestone in Kenya’s ongoing efforts to expand judicial reach and ease the burden on overcrowded courts.
The opening of the Kamwangi Law Courts is part of the Judiciary’s broader strategy to decentralize judicial services, ensuring that legal recourse is more accessible to people living in rural and underserved areas.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Chief Justice Koome highlighted the importance of proximity to justice, stressing that no citizen should have to travel long distances to seek legal redress.
“Today is a momentous occasion for the people of Kamwangi and the entire Gatundu North region,” said Koome.
“This court will not only serve as a symbol of justice but also as a reminder that the Judiciary is committed to ensuring that every Kenyan, regardless of their location, has access to fair and timely justice.”
The new Kamwangi Law Courts are expected to alleviate the burden on neighboring courts and reduce the backlog of cases, which has been a significant challenge for Kenya’s justice system.
Local residents now have the opportunity to resolve legal matters closer to home, whether in civil, criminal, or family disputes.
The move is in line with the Judiciary’s strategic focus on improving the efficiency and accessibility of justice delivery across the country.
In addition to the courtrooms, the facility will house offices for judicial officers, registry staff, and other essential personnel, further contributing to the local economy by creating jobs and boosting the region’s infrastructure.
In her address, Chief Justice Koome also emphasized the importance of public trust in the Judiciary, urging citizens to engage with the new court system with confidence and to uphold the rule of law.
“As we open this court, let us also open the doors of fairness, equity, and impartiality. Justice is not a privilege but a right for all Kenyans,” she said.
The Kamwangi Law Courts represent a new chapter for the region, aligning with the Judiciary’s broader vision to ensure that justice is not only done but is seen to be done, and that it is accessible to all citizens, regardless of their geographic location.
This inauguration is a testament to the Judiciary’s commitment to transforming the justice landscape in Kenya, promoting the vision of a fair, just, and inclusive society.
