In a significant step towards improving access to justice, the Chief Justice officially opened the Dagoretti Law Courts. The new facility represents a key advancement in the Commission’s ongoing efforts to deliver a more accessible, efficient, and people-centred judicial system.
Speaking at the event, the JSC Vice Chairperson Isaac Rutto emphasized the importance of the new courts in addressing the pressing need to decongest existing court stations in Kibera and Kikuyu. “The establishment of the Dagoretti Law Courts is a critical step towards ensuring that justice is not only accessible but also swift and efficient,” the Vice Chairperson noted. The new facility is expected to reduce the distance and time community members need to travel to access judicial services while alleviating the heavy caseloads in neighbouring courts.
The Dagoretti Law Courts will serve multiple roles, housing a Small Claims Court, a Magistrate’s Court and a Gender Justice Court. This wide array of services reflects the JSC’s commitment to providing a more inclusive and holistic approach to justice. The focus on small claims, particularly those involving values under Ksh. 1 million, will expedite case resolutions and support the local economy by helping businesses and individuals avoid protracted legal battles.
A key feature of the new facility is the Gender Justice Court, which will address the unique challenges faced by vulnerable groups, particularly in cases involving gender-based violence. The court is designed with a trauma-informed approach, ensuring that victims’ safety, dignity, and privacy are prioritized throughout the legal process.
The JSC reaffirmed its dedication to the efficient and effective administration of justice in Kenya. “We recognize that a justice system that serves the people must be accessible, transparent, and responsive to their needs,” Hon. Rutto added. The opening of the Dagoretti Law Courts is seen as a tangible manifestation of the Commission’s efforts to uphold the rule of law while ensuring that justice remains a lived reality for all Kenyans.