With the support of the European Union in Kenya and FAO Kenya, Kituo cha Sheria together with the National Steering Committee on the Implementation of the Alternative Justice Systems Policy (NaSCI-AJS) officially commissioned and operationalized an Alternative Justice Centre (AJC) at the Maralal Law Courts in Samburu County on 10th July 2024. This marks a major stride in expanding access to justice, especially for marginalized and remote communities.
The newly commissioned Centre is part of a broader initiative to promote a multiple-door approach to justice, which embraces community-led, restorative, and inclusive mechanisms. By integrating indigenous justice systems and local knowledge into the broader legal framework, the AJC in Maralal will enable the resolution of disputes in ways that are faster, culturally relevant, and more accessible to the local population. It represents a tangible effort to bring justice closer to the people, reflecting the spirit and vision of the AJS Policy.
The commissioning event brought together a wide range of stakeholders from the judiciary, civil society, and the local community. Attending the ceremony were Hon. Justice Joel Ngugi, Chairperson of NaSCI-AJS; Hon. Justice Anthony Ndung’u, Presiding Judge of Maralal; Hon. Magistrate Victor Asiyo; Jemimah Aluda; and Kituo cha Sheria’s team led by Executive Director Dr. Wambua Kituku, alongside Esther Nekesa, Jimmy Sayi, Joy Nasike, and Rony Alal. Their presence reaffirmed the collective commitment to advancing people-centered justice in Samburu.
The Judiciary, through NaSCI-AJS Chair Hon. Justice Joel Ngugi, emphasized the importance of AJS both to the Judiciary and the community at large. “Alternative Justice Systems are critical in ensuring that justice is not only accessible but also relatable and timely,” said Justice Ngugi. He further thanked Kituo cha Sheria, and through them, the European Union in Kenya and FAO Kenya, “for their continued support in strengthening access to justice for all.”
On his part, Kituo’s Executive Director, Dr. Wambua Kituku, reaffirmed Kituo’s commitment to the cause: “At Kituo cha Sheria, we remain steadfast in promoting access to justice for the poor and the marginalized. We are committed to walking this journey with the communities and our partners, and we pledge our continued support to the AJS movement.”
Also present were members of the Samburu Council of Elders, who serve as trained paralegals and are actively involved in local conflict resolution through AJS mechanisms. Their participation highlighted the critical role that traditional justice actors play in promoting peace and harmony within communities. Representatives from the Court Users Committee also joined the event, reinforcing the importance of multi-stakeholder collaboration in strengthening the justice ecosystem.
As part of the day’s activities, delegates planted trees within the court compound, a symbolic gesture representing justice, growth, and long-term peace in the region. This act not only emphasized the environmental consciousness of the initiative but also reflected a vision for a sustainable and peaceful justice future for Samburu.
In addition, Kituo cha Sheria and the NaSCI-AJS delegation also paid a courtesy call on H.E. Gabriel Lenengwesit, Deputy Governor of Samburu County. The meeting served as an opportunity to explore avenues for strategic collaboration in implementing and scaling up Alternative Justice Systems in the region.
This visit reaffirmed the County Government’s support for AJS and its commitment to working closely with local and national stakeholders. It also highlighted the importance of aligning institutional frameworks with community-led efforts to ensure that justice remains inclusive, accessible, and responsive to the unique realities of the Samburu people.
This initiative stands as a powerful reminder that meaningful justice does not only come from formal courtrooms but also grow from the wisdom, practices, and participation of local communities. Samburu now sets a strong example for other counties across Kenya seeking to actualize the promise of the Alternative Justice Systems Policy.
By; Rony Alal