The Judiciary has rolled out Alternative Justice Systems (AJS) County Action Plans and Suites in Trans Nzoia County to bridge a notable justice gap of approximately 17 percent, affecting those who often forgo seeking justice.
At the launch event, Supreme Court Judge and Kenya Judiciary Academy Director Smokin Wanjala announced the establishment of three AJS Suites (Ukumbi) in Kitale, Kiminini, and Cherangany, aiming to broaden access to justice for all Kenyans.
Justice Wanjala pointed out that these Suites will function as both physical locations and symbols of hope, independence, and empowerment for the people of Trans Nzoia.
He highlighted that while traditional judicial processes are vital, they can be hindered by high costs and prolonged procedures, creating obstacles to justice.
“AJS provides a more affordable and efficient way to resolve disputes, ensuring that justice is delivered quickly and equitably,” Justice Wanjala said. He also stressed the importance of the County Government’s role in supporting the justice system through devolution, noting that the County Action Plan will be rolled out regionally, facilitating AJS implementation and uptake.
“The Trans Nzoia Model showcases the effective collaboration between various justice entities, including the Court, the NGAO, and AJS Practitioners,” added the Judge.
The Supreme Judge noted that there has been substantial engagement with judges from the Supreme Court, Court of Appeal, High Court, and other courts of similar status to train them on Alternative Justice Systems (AJS). This training emphasized the need for a shift in mindset toward AJS and underscored the Constitutional mandate to respect, protect, and advance AJS initiatives.
“These engagements have been crucial for documenting and evaluating progress in improving access to justice through a multi-door, people-centered approach, and for giving significant momentum to the AJS movement, aptly termed ‘Vuguvugu la AJS,’” Justice Wanjala explained.
He highlighted that the multi-door justice approach, integral to Social Transformation through Access to Justice (STAJ), advocates for using AJS as the initial option for resolving various disputes when appropriate.
“By recognizing and promoting the alternative justice mechanisms widely used by Kenyans, this commitment has led to substantial improvements in citizens’ access to justice. Justice seekers have benefited from effective, locally relevant solutions, as evidenced by success stories in Isiolo, Mandera, Kitui, Kajiado, Narok, and Nakuru,” he added.
Trans Nzoia County Governor George Natembeya, speaking at the launch, acknowledged that while traditional court systems have their merits, they often fall short in addressing the root causes of crime and achieving genuine rehabilitation.
“This is why it is crucial to develop alternative justice systems that focus on healing, restitution, and reintegration of offenders into the community,” he said.
Governor Natembeya emphasized the role of elders as custodians of community traditions and values, noting that their insights are vital in bridging traditional wisdom with contemporary challenges.
“Your understanding of our traditional justice practices is invaluable as we explore how these practices can complement our modern legal systems. This integration offers an opportunity to build a more inclusive and effective justice system,” the Governor stated.
Justice Joel Ngugi, Chair of the National Steering Committee on AJS, described the launch as the culmination of an organic and invigorating socio-legal journey aimed at returning the justice narrative to the people of Trans Nzoia.
“Today, we affirm that communities can and should use AJS as a means to address societal issues related to resource distribution and power, and to shape their collective social preferences into public policies,” Justice Ngugi concluded.
