Kenya has formally kicked off Judge Phoebe Okowa’s campaign for a full nine-year term on the International Court of Justice, reinforcing its ambition to strengthen influence in key global judicial platforms.
This comes after her election in November 2025 to fill a casual vacancy, positioning her for a regular term spanning 2027 to 2036.
The Nairobi launch on Friday evening brought together government leaders, members of the diplomatic corps, representatives from legal bodies, and the judiciary.
The gathering highlighted Kenya’s commitment to upholding international law, promoting multilateralism, and ensuring equitable representation in global institutions.
Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Korir Sing’Oei commended Judge Okowa’s record and reiterated the country’s support.
He said, “Her election is a milestone achievement for Kenya, Africa, and the international legal community,” adding that it reflects “strong cross‑regional confidence in her independence, expertise and familiarity with diverse legal traditions.”
PS Sing’Oei highlighted that her presence on the ICJ demonstrates decades of service as a scholar, legal adviser, practitioner, and advocate for multilateral cooperation. He also expressed gratitude to United Nations member states for their backing and affirmed Kenya’s continued diplomatic engagement ahead of the November 2026 vote at the UN General Assembly and Security Council.
Judge Okowa, speaking during the event, thanked the Kenyan government and international partners for their support. She stressed that integrity, independence, and professionalism must remain central to the Court’s work in resolving complex global disputes.
Drawing on more than three decades of experience, she underscored her belief in international law as a vital tool for peaceful solutions and collaboration between nations.
Her current ICJ term began following a competitive election in November 2025, where she secured the required majorities in both the UN General Assembly and Security Council to replace Somali Judge Abdulqawi Ahmed Yusuf.
Her appointment was celebrated internationally, marking the first time a Kenyan has served on the Court and strengthening Africa’s representation in critical global legal institutions.
Born on January 1, 1965, in Kericho, Judge Okowa boasts a distinguished academic and professional career. She was the first woman to graduate with First Class Honours from the University of Nairobi’s Faculty of Law and later earned advanced degrees at Oxford University.
She is now a Professor of Public International Law at Queen Mary University of London and has served on the UN International Law Commission, the first African woman elected to the body, as well as the Permanent Court of Arbitration at The Hague.
Event speakers also highlighted the importance of gender equality and representation in international justice, noting that Judge Okowa’s role contributes to the Court’s diversity and enriches decision-making with broader perspectives.
