The Supreme Court of Kenya has received the African Bar Association’s (AfBA) Medal of Merit for Judicial Excellence, recognizing its leadership in advancing transformative jurisprudence and strengthening democratic governance across Africa.
The award was presented to Chief Justice and President of the Supreme Court, Martha Koome, in the presence of her fellow judges, Deputy Chief Justice Philomena Mwilu, Justice Njoki Ndung’u, Justice Isaac Lenaola, and Justice William Ouko.
Chief Justice Martha Koome described the recognition as both an honour and a reminder of the Judiciary’s sacred duty to serve the people of Kenya with integrity, fairness, and fidelity to the Constitution.
“We are humbled that the work of the Supreme Court, born out of duty, guided by conscience, and anchored in the Constitution, has found resonance beyond our borders. This recognition affirms not only the effort of one Court but the collective spirit of a nation that believes in the rule of law,” she said.
She noted that the award reflected Kenya’s democratic maturity and the public’s enduring faith in judicial institutions, even during politically sensitive times.
“This award is particularly meaningful because it speaks to the highest ideals of judicial calling excellence in service, fidelity to the Constitution, and faith in the rule of law. It reminds us that the trust placed in the Judiciary must be earned daily through fairness, integrity, and excellence,” Koome added.
Koome paid tribute to her colleagues on the Supreme Court Bench, emphasizing that African courts are now at the forefront of shaping global justice.
“This award affirms that African courts are not merely followers of global justice, but leaders in shaping it,” she said. “As the apex court, we will continue to walk steadfastly in service to truth and justice, nurturing jurisprudence that strengthens democracy, protects human dignity, and inspires trust in the rule of law.”
The African Bar Association in its citation lauded the Supreme Court for ushering in a new era of transformative constitutionalism since its establishment in 2011.
It highlighted the Court’s landmark rulings including the 2012 Advisory Opinion on the two-thirds gender principle, Rai v Rai, Peter Munya v Dickson Mwenda, and the 2017 and 2022 Presidential Election Petitions which have reinforced democracy and inspired confidence in electoral justice across the continent.
“The Court’s 2022 adjudication not only reinforced Kenya’s constitutional framework but also set a gold standard for judicial excellence in Africa,”the citation read in part.
The award was presented on behalf of the Association by Advocate Charles Kihara, the AfBA Vice President for East Africa, who was accompanied by Advocate Nicholas Sumba, Senior Counsel Charles Kanjama, and Senior Counsel Kamau Karori.
