In an age of rapid digital transformation, innovation is key to ensuring timely and equitable access to justice. Kenya’s Judiciary is embracing this revelation head-on with the launch of the new E-Judiciary Mobile Application, a landmark step toward modernizing the justice system and making it more accessible to all.

The launch of the app, alongside the 2023/2024 Performance Management and Measurement Evaluation (PMMU) Report and the Judiciary Service Delivery Innovations Report on Friday 16 May 2025, marked a pivotal moment in Kenya’s justice reform journey.

UNDP Kenya has long been committed to advancing access to justice and legal aid, particularly for marginalized and underserved communities. Through strategic partnerships with the Kenya Judiciary, Government of the Netherlands, civil society, and other justice sector actors, UNDP has supported reforms aimed at strengthening legal institutions, enhancing accountability, and making justice more inclusive. 

From the establishment of Small Claims Courts to the rollout of mobile legal aid clinics, these efforts have helped bring justice closer to the people. The launch of the E-Judiciary mobile application marks a pivotal moment in this journey, leveraging technology to streamline judicial processes, reduce case backlogs, and make legal services more accessible to all Kenyans. 

A Game-Changer for Access to Justice

The E-Judiciary App offers a digital gateway to court services and legal resources, designed to benefit not just legal professionals but ordinary citizens who seek justice. Whether it’s tracking case progress, accessing judgments, or receiving court notifications, the platform brings services closer to the people, especially those previously marginalized by geography, cost, or bureaucracy.

Impressively, initiatives like the Small Claims Courts, which are now integrated within this digital framework, are driving major progress in dispute resolution. These courts offer a fast, efficient alternative for handling civil claims, and when paired with a mobile application, they become even more effective and user-friendly.

Speaking at the launch, Hon. Justice Martha K. Koome noted that: “This Mobile App is a virtual courthouse that supports the goal of reducing physical proximity to courts, while especially empowering the elderly, persons with disabilities, and other vulnerable groups to access court services. It also enhances efficiency for legal practitioners and holds great potential for lowering the cost of judicial services. In developing the App, security and privacy concerns have been well prioritized.”

The Power of Partnerships

The success of the E-Judiciary initiative is a testament to the strength of collaboration. It reflects the shared commitment of the Judiciary of Kenya, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the Government of the Netherlands, and a host of national justice stakeholders.

Through this partnership, technology is being deployed not only as a tool for efficiency, but also as a bridge to equity, inclusion, and trust in public institutions.

Speaking at the launch, Ms. Madelena Monoja- UNDP Kenya Resident Representative a.i affirmed that "At UNDP, we are proud to walk alongside the Judiciary of Kenya and our partners in this journey. Digital innovation is creating new pathways to justice—streamlining processes, increasing transparency, and bringing the system closer to the people it serves."

More Than an App—A Symbol of Transformation

The E-Judiciary app is more than a digital solution—it is a symbol of transformation. It shows what’s possible when governments, development agencies, civil society, and communities come together to design people-centered, technology-driven solutions.

Its launch aligns with SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions, and reinforces Kenya’s broader commitment to leaving no one behind, including youth, women, people with disabilities, and marginalized groups.

Looking Ahead

As Kenya continues to lead the way in digital justice reform, the E-Judiciary application, Performance Management and Measurement Evaluation (PMMU) Report and the Judiciary Service Delivery Innovations Report signals a bold move toward a justice system that is transparent, accountable, and inclusive—one that truly serves the people.

Considering the milestone, Hon. Geoffrey Kiringa Ruku, Cabinet Secretary, Public Service and Human Capital Development applauded the progress saying, “The Judiciary PMMU Report underlies your commitment to ensure justice is not only done but seen. The launch of the report underscores the evidence-based performance, and the Judiciary can reflect on the progress made and the challenges to be addressed.”

UNDP Kenya remains committed to supporting justice sector reforms that are responsive, rights-based, and rooted in innovation.