Kenya has officially launched the candidature of Judge Phoebe Okowa for a full 2027–2036 term at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) during the ongoing African Union (AU) Executive Council Meeting in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
The move marks a significant diplomatic push by Nairobi to consolidate regional support for the historic jurist, who was elected to the ICJ in November 2025 — becoming the first Kenyan, the first African woman, and only the eighth woman globally to serve on the world’s highest court.
Kenya rallies Africa behind Okowa
Speaking on the sidelines of the AU meeting, Kenyan officials described the launch as a moment of national pride and a reflection of Africa’s growing influence in shaping global justice.
The government announced it will actively engage African Union member states to rally support for Judge Okowa’s full term at The Hague.
“Kenya will actively engage and rally the support of our African colleagues to ensure Judge Okowa continues contributing her outstanding scholarship, deep experience in international law, and global perspective for the benefit of our continent and the international community,” officials stated.
The diplomatic effort signals Kenya’s intention to position itself as a key voice in continental and global legal affairs.
A historic milestone for Kenya and Africa
Judge Okowa’s election in 2025 marked a watershed moment in Kenya’s legal and diplomatic history. Her appointment to the International Court of Justice, the principal judicial organ of the United Nations, was widely celebrated across Africa.
Her presence on the ICJ bench not only elevated Kenya’s profile in international law but also strengthened Africa’s representation in global legal institutions.
Legal analysts say her tenure comes at a time when international courts are increasingly handling complex cases involving territorial disputes, climate obligations, human rights, and cross-border conflicts — areas where African perspectives are critical.
High-level Kenyan delegation in Addis Ababa
The launch event in Addis Ababa was attended by senior Kenyan officials, including:
- Prof. Abdulrazak Shaukat, Principal Secretary for Science, Research and Innovation
- Ambassador Galma Boru
- Deputy Ambassador Petronila Were
The presence of the delegation underscores the importance Kenya attaches to securing continental backing ahead of the formal election cycle for the 2027–2036 term.
Diplomatic observers note that support from African states will be crucial in ensuring Judge Okowa’s continued tenure at the ICJ, where judges are elected by both the UN General Assembly and the Security Council.
Strengthening Africa’s voice in Global Justice
The renewed campaign comes amid broader calls for stronger African representation in international governance institutions.
By backing Judge Okowa’s full term, Kenya is positioning her candidacy as not just a national matter but a continental priority — reinforcing Africa’s voice in shaping international jurisprudence.
Her continued presence at the ICJ is expected to contribute to the development of international law in areas affecting developing nations, including environmental justice, maritime boundaries, and state responsibility.
As the AU Executive Council Meeting continues in Ethiopia, Kenya’s diplomatic engagement signals a coordinated strategy to secure early endorsements and strengthen its standing within the African bloc.
