The Judiciary has announced plans to construct a modern building for the Supreme Court to replace the current structure, which has been in use for nearly a century. The announcement was made during a forum held at the Judiciary compound in Nairobi, where President William Ruto, Supreme Court judges, and other officials gathered to celebrate the court’s 12th anniversary.
Judiciary Chief Registrar Winfridah Mokaya emphasized the need for a contemporary facility to accommodate the Supreme Court’s operational requirements. “The current Supreme Court building, constructed in 1930, is nearly a century old, and its architecture no longer meets the Supreme Court’s modern needs,” Mokaya stated. She noted that while the building holds historical and architectural value, the demand for a modern workspace has grown.
Mokaya highlighted that the Judiciary’s recent focus has been on upgrading court facilities in rural areas. “For the past 15 years, we have focused on modernizing buildings in remote areas. Now, it’s time to shift our attention to the Supreme Court and the Court of Appeal,” she said. In her remarks, Mokaya also addressed funding challenges that impact the Judiciary, calling for more resources to support this essential government branch. “While funding remains a challenge, the Supreme Court registry has improved convenience for court users,” she noted.
Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja pledged support from the county government for the new Supreme Court project. He expressed readiness to assist with land acquisition to facilitate construction. “We want the Judiciary to rely on us for support in building the new Supreme Court, as I know there is available land here for this purpose,” Sakaja stated.
The forum provided an opportunity for Supreme Court judges to reflect on the achievements and challenges of the court since its establishment, reinforcing the need for a facility that aligns with the Judiciary’s mission to serve the Kenyan public efficiently.
