Judiciary Commits to Enhancing Justice for SGBV Survivors with Specialized Gender Justice Courts
The Hon Chairperson of KEWOPA Leah Sankaire with the Chief Justice Martha Koome
The Judiciary of Kenya has taken a bold step in addressing the alarming rise in Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) by establishing specialized courts to ensure timely and survivor-centered justice. This initiative demonstrates the Judiciary’s unwavering commitment to streamlining legal processes, reducing case backlogs, and fostering a supportive environment for survivors.
Hon. Chief Justice Martha Koome, while meeting with members of the Kenya Women Parliamentarians Association (KEWOPA), reiterated the Judiciary’s dedication to tackling the scourge of gender-based violence collaboratively with stakeholders. She remarked:
“Met with members of the Kenya Women Parliamentarians Association (KEWOPA) to deliberate on the justice sector’s response to the alarming increase in femicide and gender-based violence (GBV) across Kenya. The Judiciary is committed to working collaboratively with state and non-state actors to ensure survivors of GBV have access to justice.”
In June 2023, the Judiciary unveiled the STAJ SGBV Court Strategy, a framework anchored on a survivor-centered approach. This strategy aligns judicial responses with the provisions of the Constitution and the Sexual Offences Act, prioritizing the needs of survivors and minimizing bureaucratic hurdles that often delay justice.
A significant milestone in this initiative was the rollout of Gender Justice Courts in SGBV hotspots nationwide. The first of these courts was piloted in March 2022 at Shanzu Law Courts, Mombasa County. Within 14 months of its operation, the Shanzu Gender Justice Court resolved 60 cases, including some dating back to 2015.
Encouraged by the success of the Shanzu pilot, 11 additional Gender Justice Courts were launched in June 2023. These courts feature dedicated registries for SGBV matters, ensuring seamless case handling and expediting justice for survivors.
The Judiciary’s efforts underscore the importance of collaborative action in addressing SGBV and reaffirm its resolve to uphold justice for survivors. The establishment of these specialized courts not only strengthens institutional capacity but also sets a precedent for justice systems across the region.
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