Judiciary resolves 91 per cent of cases handled through alternative dispute mediation
Koome said the Judiciary plans to expand mediation services from the current 62 stations to 77, targeting counties such as Lamu, Kwale, Samburu, Wajir, Mandera and Taita-Taveta.
The Judiciary has injected Sh68.9 billion back into the economy through the court-annexed mediation programme.
Chief Justice Martha Koome said the programme, aimed at providing an alternative dispute resolution mechanism, has proven highly effective, with at least 26,991 cases referred to mediation since its launch, boasting an impressive 91 per cent resolution rate.
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Speaking at Mathari Primary School in Nairobi during the Milimani Environment and Lands Court's open day, Koome highlighted the success of mediation in resolving disputes, particularly in land and environment cases.
“Since its inception in 2016, at least 26,991 cases have been referred to mediation, with an impressive 91 per cent resolution rate,” she said.
“These cases have unlocked more than Sh68.9 billion into the economy, demonstrating the economic and social value of this approach.”
Koome emphasised that mediation is proving to be an effective and less adversarial method of dispute resolution.
She encouraged Kenyans to embrace it, particularly in land disputes, which have historically strained relationships among families, neighbours and communities, sometimes leading to violence.
“It is imperative that we embrace mediation as a peaceful and effective means of resolving these disputes. Mediation offers an alternative path to justice, one that is accessible, respectful and tailored to our social realities. It focuses not only on legal rights but also on restoring relationships and addressing the root causes of conflict,” the CJ said.
According to Judiciary data, at least 870 cases were referred to mediation in 2023, with 820 successfully resolved, reflecting a 94 per cent success rate. Between January and June 2024, 400 cases were referred, with 311 resolved.
“These figures underscore the transformative impact of mediation not just in resolving disputes, but in promoting reconciliation, economic productivity and social cohesion,” Koome said.
There are currently 1,893 accredited mediators in Kenya, with 1,114 actively engaged. Of these, 1,179 are working within the Environment and Land Court.
Koome said the Judiciary plans to expand mediation services from the current 62 stations to 77, targeting counties such as Lamu, Kwale, Samburu, Wajir, Mandera and Taita-Taveta. She called upon community leaders, including chiefs, religious leaders, youth groups and women’s organisations to champion mediation efforts.
“We need ambassadors of mediation who can encourage those in conflict to seek resolution through dialogue,” she said.
She further noted that mediation is a faster, less costly, and more effective alternative to prolonged court battles, fostering peaceful coexistence and economic stability in communities.
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