Kenya has formally launched Judge Phoebe Okowa’s candidature for a second term at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), signaling the country’s push to strengthen Africa’s presence in global legal affairs.
The announcement came on the sidelines of the African Union Executive Council Meeting in Addis Ababa, highlighting Kenya’s ambition to champion African legal expertise on the world stage.
Judge Okowa, elected to the ICJ in November 2025, made history as the first Kenyan, the first African woman, and only the eighth woman globally to serve on the court.
Her appointment has been celebrated as a landmark achievement, inspiring a new generation of African lawyers and scholars.
CS Musalia Mudavadi emphasized Kenya’s role in rallying continental support for Okowa.
“We will engage our African colleagues to ensure Judge Okowa continues contributing her deep expertise in international law and her global perspective for the benefit of our continent and the international community,” he stated.
The launch event was attended by Prof. Shaukat, Principal Secretary for Science, Research and Innovation, Ambassador Galma Boru, and Deputy Ambassador Petronila Were.
Kenya’s delegation used the AU meeting to strengthen support across Africa, demonstrating proactive diplomacy and a commitment to promoting African excellence in international legal institutions.