Supreme Court Judge Smokin Wanjala has emphasized the need for the Judiciary to design digital court systems that serve everyone, particularly vulnerable groups. He warned that technology should enhance justice rather than create barriers for those who rely on courts for their rights and dignity.
The message was delivered in a speech read by his deputy, Duncan Okello, during a specialised training for judges of the Employment and Labour Relations Court (ELRC) on Digital and ICT Accessibility. The session focused on the theme, “Embedding Inclusive Justice in the Digital Age.”
Judge Wanjala highlighted how e-filing, virtual hearings, online legal research, and digital record management have become essential tools in the modern justice system. Despite these advancements, he noted, technology must remain accessible, flexible, and designed with the users’ needs in mind.
He pointed out that the Employment and Labour Relations Court has a critical role in protecting workers, trade unions, people with disabilities, and other marginalized communities. Decisions from this court directly affect livelihoods and human dignity, making inclusivity in digital processes crucial.
“This workshop is not merely technical in nature. It is an opportunity for judicial reflection and leadership,” Justice Wanjala said, stressing that judges influence not only rulings but also court practices and the broader culture of the judiciary.
During the opening of the training, ELRC Presiding Judge Justice Byram Ongaya described the court as a Court of Social Justice tasked with fostering fairness and dialogue in labour matters.
He also highlighted the importance of familiarising judges with artificial intelligence and other digital tools in the justice system. “Judges can unconsciously do injustice if they are not well trained,” Justice Ongaya said, commending the facilitators and expressing confidence in the learning outcomes.
Organized by the UK Digital Access Programme in partnership with the Judiciary, the training gathered justice sector stakeholders to tackle gaps in digital service delivery.
Organisers noted that despite Kenya’s strong legal framework, many digital platforms remain inaccessible to people with disabilities, senior citizens, and other vulnerable groups.
