NAIROBI, Kenya, Feb 12 – A total of 50,666 cases have been resolved through Small Claims Courts over the last three years.
While giving her remarks during the opening address at the small claims courts (SCCs) annual symposium 2024, Chief Justice Martha Koome said the courts have played a pivotal role in promoting access to justice through Social transformation.
“As of last week, we had 61,269 cases filed since the rollout of SCC Courts. In addition, and worth celebrating is that 50,666 of these cases have been resolved,” she stated.
The CJ noted that since SCCs began operation in 2021, a total of 81 adjudicators have been designated to preside over the 37 operational SCCs facilitating easy access to justice.
“In the last three 3 years, the court has extended its footprint in the country and is now operational in thirty-three 33 Counties with 37 functional registries established,” she revealed.
She stated that establishment of SCCs across the country has also led to release of Sh 9.3 billion back to the Kenyan economy, a move targeted to enhancing ease of doing business and boosting the country’s investment.
“Since its inception, the Small Claims Court across the country has been able to release Sh. 9.3 billion back to the Kenyan economy. These statistics show that Small Claims Courts are, indeed, engines for economic development,” she said.
Koome pointed out that the expansion of the courts has enabled the judiciary to bring accelerated justice closer to the citizens.
She added that the courts have become more instrumental for Kenyan women, particularly those who run small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) including salons, catering services, vegetable stalls, and savings groups.
“It is notable that as of January 31, 2024, a significant number of women, totaling 7,439, have utilized Small Claims Courts to file cases,” she said.
Koome stated that the SCCs will help minimize barriers hindering easy access of justice for the vulnerable and marginalized communities.
