Al-Islaah Justice Centre unveiled in Garissa to boost access to justice

Chief Justice and President of the Supreme Court, Martha Karambu Koome on Tuesday made a historic visit to Garissa County Headquarters, marking the first official visit to the county seat by a sitting Chief Justice.

The CJ, who was received by Garissa Governor Nathif Jama, presided over the launch of the Alternative Justice System (AJS) Al-Islaah Centre, the Garissa AJS Model, and the County AJS Action Plan.

The initiative seeks to expand access to justice by embedding traditional conflict resolution within formal judicial frameworks.

Describing the launch as a milestone, Justice Koome said the AJS model would transform the justice system by making it more inclusive, affordable, and culturally relevant.

“This is a landmark moment not just for Garissa, but for Kenya as a whole. The AJS model ensures justice is accessible, community-driven, and reflective of our cultural contexts. I commend Governor Nathif Jama for his leadership and for placing Garissa at the forefront of this transformative system,” she stated.

CJ Koome praised Garissa’s long-standing heritage of councils of elders and religious leadership, noting that these cultural assets provide a strong foundation for the success of AJS.

She also announced plans to fast-track the establishment of an Appeal Court in Garissa, along with new Magistrate and Kadhi Courts in Bura, Fafi, and Masalani to further expand access to justice.

Governor Jama welcomed the Chief Justice to Garissa and reaffirmed his administration’s support for judicial reforms that prioritize reconciliation and peace.

“Today we are honored to host the Chief Justice in Garissa. Our partnership in championing the AJS model demonstrates our shared vision of making justice simple, affordable, and closer to the people. This initiative will strengthen peace, cohesion, and accountability in our communities,” Governor Jama said.

The Governor further pledged to devolve the AJS framework to all sub-counties, ensuring that elders, religious leaders, and trained mediators are engaged in resolving disputes at the community level.

The Al-Islaah Justice Centre—named after the Arabic word for “reconciliation”—is designed to foster dialogue, healing, and social cohesion.

It will serve as a hub for traditional leaders, religious figures, and mediators to restore relationships and promote peace.

Governor Jama emphasized the significance of the initiative in addressing Garissa’s unique challenges, from land disputes to cross-border tensions with Somalia.

“By empowering our elders, faith leaders, and communities under the Al-Islaah framework, we are investing in peace, stability, and security for future generations,” he said.

The AJS framework is expected to strengthen community cohesion and restore trust in Kenya’s justice system.

This will ensure that justice is not only done, but also seen to be fair and culturally relevant.