Court of Appeal Judge Hellen Omondi has called on members of the Judiciary to embrace dispute resolution mechanisms that safeguard dignity and protect vulnerable members of society.
Speaking in Nairobi during the opening of the Mediation Summit 2026 at Strathmore University on behalf of Chief Justice Martha Koome, Justice Omondi said family disputes often place the heaviest burden on women and children. She noted that issues such as matrimonial property, custody, gender-based violence and succession require approaches that are sensitive to power imbalances and domestic realities.
Justice Omondi, who also serves as President of the International Association of Women Judges Kenya Chapter, emphasized the need for gender-responsive mediation frameworks that uphold the rights and interests of children.
“The association is committed to advancing human rights, gender equality and the rule of law. We believe justice must be accessible, humane and transformative,” she said.
She urged stronger collaboration between the Judiciary, civil society, policymakers and international partners, noting that meaningful justice can only be achieved through joint efforts. Justice Omondi highlighted that Court Annexed Mediation (CAM), which began as a pilot in Nairobi’s Family and Commercial Divisions, has now expanded into a nationwide programme across all 47 counties.
She revealed that mediation has helped unlock over KSh95 billion previously tied up in litigation, while also restoring relationships, keeping businesses afloat and reducing the emotional strain of prolonged court battles.
According to the judge, disputes resolved through mediation now take an average of 124 days, significantly easing case backlogs in courts.
Chief Registrar of the Judiciary Winfridah Mokaya, who was represented by Deputy Chief Registrar Paul Ndemo, reaffirmed the Judiciary’s commitment to expanding access to justice.
She noted that mediation registries are now operational in all 47 counties, with at least 121 courts offering mediation services.
