Chief Justice Martha Koome has announced the establishment of a new high court at the Makadara Law Courts, which is scheduled to commence operations on January 2, 2025.
This new court will focus exclusively on criminal cases, providing critical support in a jurisdiction that has faced growing demands.
According to a gazette notice issued earlier this week, the Makadara High Court will have supervisory authority over both the Makadara Chief Magistrates’ Court and the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) Magistrates’ Court, ensuring that justice is effectively administered within these vital urban and transportation hubs.
This initiative marks the addition of the third high court in Nairobi, following the unveiling of a similar court at the Kibera Law Courts in 2021. The introduction of specialized divisions within the high court system reflects a strategic effort to enhance judicial efficiency and address the rising caseloads in the region.
The High Court of Kenya, established under the 2010 Constitution, plays a pivotal role in the country’s legal framework, with original jurisdiction over civil and criminal matters, as well as the authority to interpret the Constitution.
By establishing specialized courts such as the one in Makadara, the judiciary aims to ensure that citizens have better access to justice while upholding the rule of law.
