Kituo Cha Sheria, with support from the Grassroots Justice Network, joined a distinguished delegation of justice actors at the African Regional Forum on People-Centered Justice, held alongside the 85th Ordinary Session of the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights (ACHPR) in Banjul, The Gambia.
The delegation brought together leading organisations, including ISA WALI Empowerment Initiative, Lady Ellen Women’s Aid Foundation, LRC-Ghana, African Centre of Excellence for Access to Justice, Natural Justice, and Muleide, in a shared effort to advance people-centred justice across the continent.
Delegates pose for a photo during the session in The Gambia.
The forum served as a vital platform for strengthening collaboration and showcasing collective progress towards Sustainable Development Goal 16+, with particular emphasis on building peaceful, just, and inclusive societies. Special recognition was given to the Pathfinders for Peaceful, Just and Inclusive Societies for their leadership and coordination in advancing the global people-centred justice movement.
On the sidelines of the forum, the Grassroots Justice Network delegation, including Kituo Cha Sheria and the African Centre of Excellence for Access to Justice, held a strategic engagement with Commissioner Dr. Litha Musyimi-Ogana. The discussions reaffirmed a shared commitment to legal empowerment and the promotion of Alternative Justice Systems (AJS) as a practical and community-driven pathway to justice delivery across Africa.
Delegates during a strategic engagement session with Commissioner Dr. Litha Musyimi-Ogana.
Drawing lessons from the slow implementation of Kenya’s National Legal Aid Act, the delegation urged African states to accelerate legal empowerment reforms and invest in AJS as inclusive mechanisms that expand access to justice for all, particularly marginalised communities.
The delegation also expressed optimism that the ACHPR will adopt a resolution advancing legal empowerment and Alternative Justice Systems, in a bid to safeguard and promote Africa’s indigenous knowledge systems and strengthen people-centred justice approaches across the continent.
Kituo Cha Sheria took part in a global dialogue on the future of justice systems through the UNDP Frontline Talks on “Justice and Security that Put People at the Centre.”
The organisation’s Executive Director, Dr. Wambua Kituku, joined leading experts, practitioners, and policymakers from across the world in a high-level exchange focused on reimagining how justice and security systems can better serve people. The discussions centred on a shared global priority: moving away from institution-centred approaches and instead advancing justice models that are accessible, inclusive, and responsive to the real needs of communities.
During the talks, Dr. Kituku shared practical insights drawn from Kituo Cha Sheria’s work in promoting access to justice for marginalised and vulnerable groups. He emphasised that justice systems must not only exist in law and policy, but must be felt in everyday life through fair processes, timely responses, and meaningful inclusion of the people they are meant to serve.
The conversation highlighted key strategies for strengthening the rule of law while ensuring that justice remains firmly human-centred and equitable. Participants underscored the importance of collaboration between governments, civil society, and international partners in building systems that are not only efficient, but also trusted and people-driven.
The UNDP Frontline Talks, convened by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), continue to serve as a critical global platform for dialogue, knowledge exchange, and collective problem-solving. They bring together diverse stakeholders committed to reimagining justice and security for the 21st century anchored in dignity, inclusion, and fairness for all.
In Kenya, civic space has undergone significant changes, often shaped by the way the state allocates and controls funding. These shifts can influence how civil society organizations operate, at times restricting freedoms and affecting public trust. Understanding these dynamics is essential to ensuring that civic engagement remains meaningful and protected from undue influence.
Strong and independent institutions are essential for creating an environment where rights are respected, accountability is upheld, and citizens can participate freely in governance. By reinforcing institutional integrity, societies can build resilient democracies that are inclusive, transparent, and capable of earning public trust.
Dr. Wambua Kituku, Executive Director of Kituo cha Sheria, addressing participants at the summit.
At the 5th Civil Space Protection Summit held in Nakuru, Kituo cha Sheria Executive Director, Dr. Wambua Kituku, took center stage during the Economics & Institutional Integrity Jam Session, delivering a compelling address on the same theme. Dr. Kituku emphasized that robust, independent institutions are critical to protecting civic freedoms and sustaining public trust noting the critical link between institutional integrity and citizens’ confidence in governance.
“When institutions operate free from undue influence, they become the backbone of a thriving democracy.” Dr. Wambua Kituku, Executive Director, Kituo cha Sheria
The Annual Civic Space Protection Summit brought together a diverse assembly of delegates from CSOs, NGOs, youth movements, and government agencies under the theme “Reclaiming Civic and Democratic Space Amid Shrinking Freedoms.” The forum provided a critical platform to examine the mounting pressures facing civic freedoms in Kenya, amplify the voices and experiences of human rights defenders, and collectively craft strategies aimed at safeguarding democratic space. It also underscored the urgency of strengthening institutional independence and rebuilding public trust as essential pillars for a vibrant and resilient civic environment.
The Civil Space Protection Summit underway in Nakuru.
Drawing from Kituo’s experience in promoting access to justice and defending human rights, Dr. Kituku underscored that safeguarding civic space requires more than legislation; it demands active enforcement, transparency, and mechanisms that hold institutions accountable. He stressed that independent institutions not only protect individual rights but also foster an environment where civic engagement and public discourse can flourish safely.
The session resonated with participants, reinforcing the idea that economic development, public trust, and civic freedoms are deeply intertwined with institutional integrity. By investing in and protecting independent institutions, societies can ensure that civic space remains vibrant, inclusive, and resilient against encroachments.
Kituo cha Sheria proudly joined Kenyans in commemorating 15 years since the promulgation of the Constitution of Kenya, 2010, under the theme “Fidelity to the Constitution; Securing Full Implementation.” Together with our partners, we marked this national milestone at the Methodist Resort with a vibrant celebration graced by former Chief Justice David Maraga, who offered reflections on the country’s progress and the challenges that persist in fully realising the Constitution’s promise.
Chief Justice Emeritus David Maraga delivering his speech during the Katiba Day celebration at the Methodist Church.
As part of our legal empowerment efforts, Kituo also hosted a free Legal Aid Clinic at our grounds, culminating in a colourful ceremony presided over by our Board Chairman, Mr. Justus Munyithya. The clinic provided an accessible platform for citizens seeking guidance on matters ranging from land and succession to labour rights, migration, and criminal justice. In addition, we distributed free copies of the Katiba, reaffirming its central role in protecting human rights and empowering citizens to demand accountability.
“As we celebrate Katiba Day, we are reminded that the Constitution’s promise is only fulfilled when every Kenyan especially the poor and marginalized can access justice with dignity. At Kituo cha Sheria, our mission has always been to stand with those left at the margins, empowering communities to know, claim, and defend their rights. Fidelity to the Constitution means turning its words into lived realities, and we remain committed to ensuring that justice is not a privilege for the few, but a guarantee for all.” Mr. Justus Munyithya, Board Chair, Kituo Cha Sheria
Kituo cha Sheria Board Chairman, Mr. Justus Munyithya (centre), leading participants in the cake-cutting ceremony.
The Katiba@15 commemoration offered a moment of reflection on Kenya’s strides in deepening constitutionalism, strengthening devolution, and operationalizing the Bill of Rights, while also acknowledging persistent gaps in access to justice, public participation, and governance. It was equally a call to action, reminding all actors that the Constitution is not merely a legal document but a living covenant that must be safeguarded, respected, and fully implemented for the benefit of every Kenyan.
Supported by the Mott Foundation and Misereor, this occasion was both celebratory and reflective, a reminder of our collective journey in advancing constitutionalism and empowering communities to defend their rights. At Kituo, we remain steadfast in our mission to ensure that the promise of the Constitution translates into justice, dignity, and equality for all.
In Kenya, countless inmates face a harsh reality: legal problems with nowhere to turn. The judicial process is often prohibitively expensive, lawyers are unaffordable for the majority, and the state frequently fails to provide legal representation. For many, navigating the complexities of the law while behind bars can feel impossible, leaving prisoners vulnerable and their rights unprotected.
It is in this challenging landscape that the critical role of paralegals comes to the fore. Recognizing this gap, Kituo Cha Sheria, with support from the Mott Foundation, has embarked on a series of transformative paralegal trainings across several prisons in Kenya, including Kodiaga Maximum Prison, Chuka Main Prison, Meru Maximum Prison, and Lodwar GK Prison. These trainings aim to equip both inmates and prison officers with essential legal knowledge and practical skills, creating a bridge to justice from within the correctional system.
Inmates display their certificates alongside Kituo board member Hon. Justice P.J. Otieno (in a blue suit) following the successful training in Lodwar, Turkana County.
The sessions cover a broad spectrum of topics, including criminal procedure, the rights of accused persons, fair trial guarantees, legal drafting, and civil law processes as alternative avenues for dispute resolution. Inmates are also sensitized on constitutional rights, with particular attention to the observance of Katiba Day, reinforcing the Constitution’s role in safeguarding rights and promoting justice for all.
Beyond knowledge-sharing, Kituo provides practical resources to support ongoing legal empowerment, including copies of the Constitution of Kenya and the Self-Representation Guide. By equipping inmates with this foundational legal understanding, the trainings foster a more informed and responsible prison community, enabling both inmates and officers to navigate legal procedures effectively and uphold rights.
Kituo staff and correctional officers pose for a photo outside Chuka Prison following the training.
The impact of these sessions has been profound. Legal awareness is strengthened, self-representation is encouraged, and access to justice is expanded for groups often overlooked within the prison system. The Lodwar GK Prison session, graced by Kituo board member Hon. Justice P.J. Otieno, underscored the power of partnerships in driving meaningful social impact.
Through these initiatives, Kituo Cha Sheria continues to empower local actors, advance community-based justice, and ensure that even within correctional facilities, the fundamental rights and responsibilities of every individual are recognized and upheld.
On 21st August 2025, Kituo Cha Sheria, in partnership with the National Steering Committee on the Implementation of Alternative Justice Systems (NaSCI-AJS) and with support from GIZ – German International Cooperation, Kenya, participated in the official launch of the Mombasa County Action Plan on AJS and the AJS Suit, the 11th of its kind in the country.
The launch was hosted by the County Government of Mombasa under the leadership of H.E. Governor Abdulswamad Sheriff Nassir, and graced by high-level leaders including the Chief Justice, Hon. Martha Koome, Hon. Justice (Prof.) Joel Mwaura Ngugi, Chair of NaSCI-AJS, our Executive Director, Dr. Wambua Kituku, and Peter Kiama, Executive Director of Haki Yetu. The event also brought together paralegals, elders, community leaders, and grassroots representatives.
Dr. Wambua Kituku, Executive Director of Kituo Cha Sheria, giving his remarks during the launch of the Mombasa County AJS Action Plan and Suit.
As an institution, Kituo Cha Sheria has been at the forefront of supporting the establishment of AJS Suits, designed to ease the backlog in the Judiciary by leveraging local knowledge and community-based mechanisms for dispute resolution. These Suits offer safe spaces for dialogue, reconciliation, and culturally rooted solutions to disputes—particularly those involving land and family matters that frequently overwhelm the courts.
The newly launched Mombasa AJS Suit will be run by trained paralegals, many of whom have undergone a series of specialized trainings by Kituo Cha Sheria on various elements of the law, community mediation, and the boundaries of AJS practice. These trainings equip paralegals with practical skills to handle disputes in a fair, restorative, and culturally sensitive manner, while also helping them understand the limitations of AJS—for example, that serious criminal matters cannot be handled through community mediation and must be referred to the formal justice system. By anchoring the Suit in the hands of trusted local paralegals, the model ensures both accessibility and compliance with the law.
Hon. Martha Koome, Chief Justice of Kenya, speaking at the official launch of the Mombasa County AJS Action Plan and Suit.
In his remarks, Dr. Wambua Kituku emphasized that “The journey of access to justice does not end with a launch; it continues every day in the lives of the people we serve.” He underscored the fact that the Mombasa AJS Action Plan was developed through collaboration with the Judiciary, county government, elders, and community leaders to ensure it reflects the lived realities of citizens.
Kituo also raised important concerns that need to be addressed as AJS continues to grow in Mombasa and across Kenya. These include the mental wellbeing of AJS practitioners, who often carry the emotional burden of conflict resolution; the need for greater public awareness and trust-building, to enhance confidence in AJS processes; and the localisation of AJS Suits across all six sub-counties of Mombasa, to ensure equity and inclusivity in community-centered justice.
Kituo Cha Sheria Mombasa Office Coordinator, Mr. Conrad Atiang (far left), poses with delegates during the launch of the Mombasa County AJS Action Plan and Suit.
Through support from GIZ and collaboration with partners, Kituo Cha Sheria continues to train paralegals, build the capacity of community mediators, and sensitize citizens to embrace AJS as a restorative, people-centered approach to justice.
The launch marked a historic milestone for Mombasa County, embedding restorative justice within local governance structures and reaffirming the shared commitment of all partners to ensure that justice is accessible, dignified, and harmonious for all, especially the most vulnerable.
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.
Hon. Justice Joel Ngugi leads delegates during the commissioning of the Maralal Alternative Justice Centre.
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.”
Delegates pose for a group photo during the commissioning of the Maralal Alternative Justice System (AJS) Centre.
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.
Dr. Wambua Kituku, assisted by an officer, plants a tree during the commissioning of the Maralal Alternative Justice Centre.
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.
Delegates during the courtesy visit to the Office of the Deputy Governor.
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.
The National Steering Committee on the Implementation of the Alternative Justice Systems Policy (NaSCI-AJS) on 26th June 2023 convened the 2nd Annual National Conference on Alternative Justice Systems in Kenya at Tangaza University College. The conference brings together justice actors, practitioners, judicial officers, academics, policy makers, civil society actors, development partners, community leaders and all stakeholders in the Access to Justice Ecosystem.
The Global Strategic Litigation Council on 31st January 2023 convened at the University of Nairobi, School of Law, Parklands Campus, for a regional consultation on strategic litigation for refugee rights.
